India is integrating artificial intelligence into its weather forecasting systems to improve prediction accuracy, a move expected to benefit sectors such as agriculture, disaster management and urban planning, the Ministry of Earth Sciences said on Wednesday.

Institutions under the ministry are collaborating to incorporate AI and machine learning into meteorological research and operational frameworks.

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology in Pune has established a dedicated virtual center focused on AI, ML, and deep learning for advancements in Earth Sciences.

AI-based models have enhanced short-term precipitation forecasts by reducing bias in one-day, two-day, and three-day predictions.

The ministry said in a written reply to parliament that other developments include high-resolution urban meteorological datasets, a time-varying Normalized Difference Urbanization Index with a spatial resolution of 30 meters, and AI to monitor and predict Tropical Cyclone Heat Potential.

AI-Powered Agrometeorological Advisory Services

The India Meteorological Department has also ramped up its Agrometeorological Advisory Services, which provide medium-range weather forecasts and climate-based recommendations for farmers.

The initiative, the Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa, helps farmers decide on sowing, irrigation and harvesting by providing timely advisories based on AI-enhanced weather models.

IMD disseminates weather forecasts through various channels, including television, radio, mobile apps, and SMS alerts.

Farmers can access district-specific weather advisories via the Meghdoot and Mausam apps, and the ministry has partnered with social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and YouTube to extend outreach.

Expanding Weather Forecasting to Rural Areas

A new Gram Panchayat Level Weather Forecasting initiative launched in October 2024 also aims to expand weather services to rural areas. The forecasts are available on digital platforms like e-Gramswaraj and Mausamgram, helping local administrations and farmers make informed decisions.

To further enhance outreach, IMD has integrated its advisory services with IT platforms of 16 state governments, allowing farmers to receive weather updates in regional languages.

The ministry said efforts are also underway to engage directly with the farming community through awareness programs, kisan melas and field visits.

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