Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh Launches Weather Forecasting at the Gram Panchayat Level
28 October 2024, New Delhi: Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Minister of Panchayati Raj, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology & Earth Sciences, and Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, launched Gram Panchayat-Level Weather Forecasting in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
This initiative, developed in collaboration between the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), marks a major step forward in climate preparedness at the grassroots level. This significant endeavour is part of the Government’s 100 Days Agenda and reflects a Whole of Government approach, with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj working closely with expert Departments to bring transformative changes in grassroots governance. The initiative will provide Gram Panchayats with a five-day weather forecast and hourly updates, enabling rural communities to better plan agricultural activities and prepare for weather-related risks.
Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized that “Weather Forecasting at the Gram Panchayat Level” is a key step towards empowering the Indian economy and enhancing the Ease of Living for rural populations. This initiative will transform rural governance by enabling Panchayats to address climate challenges and improve decision-making for agriculture and disaster preparedness. Singh highlighted the crucial role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in disseminating timely weather information to rural citizens, ultimately improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development.
Minister of State for Panchayati Raj Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel elaborated on the long-term benefits of this initiative, which aligns with the Government’s vision of building smart, empowered, and self-reliant Panchayats. He emphasized the potential of this initiative to make a positive impact on the lives of rural citizens, particularly farmers, and stressed on the importance of raising widespread public awareness about its advantages. Prof. Baghel said that rural India will play a pivotal role in realizing the dream of a developed nation through such forward-thinking and transformative initiatives.
During his address, Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, MoPR, called upon Panchayats to actively disseminate weather-related information to the masses, ensuring that rural communities fully benefit from the initiative. While Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General, India Meteorological Department, provided comprehensive insights into the technical aspects and benefits of “Weather Forecasting at the Gram Panchayat Level”. Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, MoPR, highlighted the crucial role of Panchayats in driving this initiative forward.
The launch event witnessed participation from dignitaries and senior officers from the Ministries of Panchayati Raj, Agriculture, Rural Development, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Department of Science and Technology (DST), and other key stakeholders. Panchayat representatives from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh participated in the program with great enthusiasm, demonstrating keen interest in utilizing these weather forecasting tools to improve agricultural outcomes and safeguard their communities from climate-related challenges.
In addition to the launch, a Training Workshop on “Weather Forecasts at the Gram Panchayat Level” was also organized for over 200 participants, including elected representatives of PRIs and State Panchayati Raj officials. The workshop provided hands-on training to enhance their understanding and use of weather forecasting tools, empowering them to build climate resilience in their respective regions.
The weather forecasting data will be accessible through digital platforms such as Meri Panchayat app, eGramSwaraj, and Gram Manchitra, which play a crucial role in streamlining governance and fostering transparency at the grassroots level. The eGramSwaraj platform helps with project tracking and resource management, while the Meri Panchayat app promotes community engagement. The Gram Manchitra platform provides geospatial insights, aiding in spatial planning and development projects at the Panchayat level.
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