Bharat Forecast System (BFS) Launch
On May 26, 2025, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) launched the Bharat Forecast System (BFS) at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, marking a significant advancement in weather forecasting technology.
Improvements in Weather Forecasting
- Resolution Enhancement: The BFS enhances forecast resolution from 12-km to 6-km grid squares, offering a four-fold improvement.
- Forecast Accuracy: Provides more accurate rain forecasts down to the panchayat level for the short- (three-day) and medium-term (seven-day) forecasts.
- Global Uniqueness: India is the only country providing operational weather forecasts at a 6 km by 6 km resolution.
Technological Advancements
- Grid Structure: Utilizes a new grid structure called the triangular-cubic octahedral (TCO) for higher resolution in tropical regions.
- Computing Power: Enhanced by high-performance computing systems ‘Arka’ and ‘Arunika’ with capacities of 11.77 and 8.24 Peta FLOPS, respectively.
- AI and Machine Learning: Equipped with a dedicated system for AI and ML applications with a capacity of 1.9 Peta FLOPS.
Future Developments
- Expansion of Infrastructure: Plan to install 34 additional Doppler Weather Radars to complement the existing 53 for better prediction of phenomena like thunderstorms.
Atmanirbharta and Global Impact
Union MoS Jitendra Singh emphasized that the BFS reflects true Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) with Indian efforts and technology benefitting not only India but also other tropical regions with complex weather challenges.