A four days national symposium on the theme “Weather and Climate Extremes” begins at Panjab University here on Sunday.Padma Bhushan, Dr T Ramasami, Former Secretary, Union Department of Science & Technology inaugurated the TROPMET 2015, which is jointly organized by the Indian Meteorological Society, Panjab University and Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment.
In his inaugural address, Dr T Ramasami stressed the need for increasing advancement in the knowledge of the field to ensure that meteorologist be an agent of change. In light of current changes observed in climate and weather patterns, he dwelled on the special relevance of the seminar for the looming crises of climate change, polluted and depleted waters and soil degradation as food supply comes from the agricultural sector and this is an area of major and immediate impact.
Therefore, active interactions of bodies like Department of Science and Technology (DST), India Meteorological Department (IMD), and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) with society and common man who are affected by such weather and climate extremes is required, said he.
The guest of honor, Dr laxman Singh Rathore, Director General, IMD said that extreme weather is the biggest challenge, we focus on. He said that stakeholders engagement is to be increased.
He also urged for an existence in harmony with nature which would have a positive fallout on climate and weather patterns.He highlighted the Kedarnath tragedy and the Jammu and Kashmir floods by emphasizing the prediction of these events. The timely and accurate prediction of latest cyclonic storm Hud-Hud saved many lives.
Addressing the media after the inaugural session Dr Rathore said that India is best in tropics and soon block wise forecast will be available throughout the country, which is presently available at district level. The symposium will conclude on February 18.