To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Meteorological Centre Shillong organised a vibrant cultural program at Mawsynram on March 11.
The event was attended by visitors from IMD, KSO Shillong and the villagers of Mawsynram in the presence of the village rangbah shnong L. Shangpliang and the executive council members, MC Shillong officials and families.
Director of Meteorological Center Shillong Thangjalal Lhouvum highlighted the services undertaken for better weather observation, forecasting and dissemination to the public with a vision to achieve early warning for all in the state. He underscored the invaluable contributions of the IMD in advancing meteorological services in Meghalaya.
He further shared exciting upcoming projects aimed at enhancing public utility and addressing the unique challenges posed by the region’s diverse topography and climatic conditions.
Agriculture Specialist Evakordor Jyrwa provided a comprehensive overview of the Agro-meteorological services offered by the department in Khasi language for wider reach and better understanding of the services. She spoke about the Meghdoot app, emphasising its vital role in delivering real-time weather updates to farmers and the general public, thereby fostering more efficient agricultural practices.
Rivertis Pariong, a distinguished Meteorologist with extensive experience at IMD Shillong addressed the audience on the significance of extreme weather forecasting. He encouraged youth to utilise the available data for research, innovation and in real world applications. He spoke on impact-based forecasting that offered a deeper understanding of the IMD’s work in predicting and mitigating the effects of severe weather events.
The cultural highlight of the program included dance performance by the students of Seng Khasi LP & UP School Nongrum, Mawsynram, Kuki Students’ Organization Shillong Cultural Troupe.
