Why in News
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to pause further interest rate cuts during its recent monetary policy review. This move comes amid ongoing global trade uncertainties, including new tariffs by the U.S. on Indian imports.
About BharatFS
- Full Form: Bharat Forecast System.
- Developed by:
- IITM-Pune (Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology)
- NCMRWF-Noida (National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting)
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Initiative: Part of Make in India & supports Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Key Features
- Global Model: Operates in real time for global weather predictions.
- Highest Resolution:
- Uses Triangular Cubic Octahedral (TCo) dynamical grid.
- Horizontal resolution of 6 km – highest in the world for operational forecasting.
- Previous GFS T1534 model had 12 km resolution.
- Comparison with Global Models: Surpasses most global systems (generally 9–14 km resolution).
- Localized Forecasting: Enables predictions at panchayat/cluster level, supporting disaster management and agriculture.
- Improved Accuracy: Up to 30% more accurate in extreme rainfall forecasts. Significant improvements in short- and medium-range predictions.
Significance
- Scientific Achievement: Puts India among the top countries with cutting-edge numerical weather prediction systems. Only nation currently running a global operational model at 6 km resolution.
- Disaster Preparedness: Accurate, localized warnings can save lives during floods, cyclones, and heavy rainfall events.
- Agricultural Planning: Farmers get precise rainfall and temperature forecasts, aiding sowing, irrigation, and harvest decisions.
- Self-Reliance in Technology: Developed fully in India, reducing dependence on foreign forecasting models.
Impact on Policy & Governance
- Disaster Management Authorities can plan evacuations and relief better.
- Rural Development Programs can integrate weather advisories into village planning.
- Infrastructure Protection – timely alerts help safeguard roads, railways, and dams.
Conclusion:
BharatFS is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic asset for India’s climate resilience, food security, and disaster preparedness. Its world-leading 6 km resolution places India at the forefront of global weather forecasting capabilities.
