On May 26, 2025, Union Minister of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the Bharat Forecast System (BFS), the world’s first indigenously developed high-resolution weather forecasting system, at a ceremony in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. This breakthrough, led by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, enhances India’s ability to predict localised weather patterns with unprecedented precision. For competitive exam aspirants, BFS is a key current affairs topic, showcasing India’s advancements in climate technology and self-reliance.
Technological Advancements in BFS
Unmatched Resolution and Speed
The Bharat Forecast System operates at a 6 km resolution, a significant improvement over the previous 12 km grid, making it the world’s most granular global numerical weather prediction system. Unlike models from European, British, and US agencies, which range from 9 km to 14 km, BFS provides detailed forecasts for 6x6 km zones. Powered by the Arka supercomputer, with a processing speed of 11.77 petaflops, BFS processes data in just four hours, compared to 10 hours by its predecessor, Pratyush. This speed and precision enable hyperlocal nowcasts for the next two hours, supported by a network of 40 Doppler Weather Radars, set to expand to 100.
Economic and Agricultural Implications
Mitigating Weather-Related Losses
The BFS addresses critical economic challenges highlighted in the Economic Survey 2024, which noted persistent food inflation due to extreme weather events. Data from the Centre for Science and Environment indicated increased crop damage in 2024 compared to previous years. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a rise in heatwaves, affecting 18% of days between 2022 and 2024, up from 5% in 2020-21. BFS’s 30% improvement in extreme rainfall forecasts and 64% enhancement in core zones helps reduce crop losses and supports climate-resilient agriculture. The Reserve Bank of India also emphasized the need for temperature-resistant crops to stabilize vegetable prices, underscoring BFS’s role in economic stability.
Key Features of Bharat Forecast System
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 6 km, compared to 9-14 km global models |
| Supercomputer | Arka, 11.77 petaflops, processes data in 4 hours |
| Radar Network | 40 Doppler radars, expanding to 100 |
| Forecast Improvement | 30% better for extreme rainfall, 64% in core zones |
| Coverage | Tropical belt (30°S to 30°N), including India (8.4°N to 37.6°N) |
Women-Led Innovation and Collaboration
A Milestone for Nari Shakti
The Bharat Forecast System was spearheaded by four women scientists, reflecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Nari Shakti. Dr. Jitendra Singh noted, “Science Ministries are being empowered by women,” highlighting their leadership in this indigenous breakthrough. The project involved collaboration between IITM, IMD, ISRO, and other institutions, embodying a Whole of Science and Whole of Government approach. This aligns with initiatives like Mission Mausam, launched with a ₹2000 crore budget to upgrade India’s climate forecasting infrastructure.
Key Highlights of Bharat Forecast System
- Event Date: Launched on May 26, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
- System: World’s first indigenously developed 6 km resolution weather forecasting model.
- Technology: Powered by Arka supercomputer, processing data in 4 hours vs. 10 hours by Pratyush.
- Impact: 30% improved extreme rainfall forecasts, 64% in core zones, reducing crop losses.
- Leadership: Spearheaded by four women scientists, aligning with Nari Shakti vision.
- Significance: Enhances disaster preparedness, supports agriculture, and aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat.