PARLIAMENT QUESTION: BRAHMAPUTRA FLOOD FORECASTING AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE MISSION - 30th July 2026 - Ministry of Earth Sciences - Gazette Notification PDF

Executive Summary The Union Cabinet approved the Central Sector Scheme "Mission Mausam" in 2024 to transition India into a "Weather-ready and Climate-smart" nation. The mission focuses on enhancing the accuracy of weather predictions and flood forecasting through advanced AI/ML models and high-performance computing, specifically targeting the Brahmaputra and Barak river basins in Assam. Key objectives include strengthening observational networks and ensuring the timely last-mile dissemination of early warnings for extreme weather events.

Key Points / Main Content

Mission Mausam and Strategic Goals

• Vision: To build a climate-resilient nation by improving the spatial resolution and accuracy of weather and climate predictions.
• Infrastructure Enhancement: Focuses on strengthening observational networks and advancing high-resolution numerical weather prediction models.
• Technological Integration: Utilizes high-performance computing and advanced technologies for better monitoring and early warning services.

Flood Forecasting and Monitoring

• CWC Mandate: The Central Water Commission (CWC) provides short-range flood forecasts with a lead time of up to 24 hours to State Governments.
• Assam Coverage: CWC maintains 32 flood forecast stations across the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers and their tributaries in Assam.
• Specialized Models: CWC has developed AI/ML-based models for 12 Level Forecast stations, with eight specifically located in the Brahmaputra basin.

Meteorological Infrastructure and AI Integration

• Modeling Framework: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) employs six physical models and three AI-based models for weather prediction.
• Decision Support: Forecasting decisions are supported by a multi-model ensemble technique and the Multi-Hazard Early Warning Decision Support System (MHEW-DSS).
• Regional Network: Services are delivered via eight Regional Meteorological Centres (RMCs) and 25 Meteorological Centres (MCs), with RMC Guwahati and MC Gangtok specifically serving the Northeast region.

Impact Analysis

State Governments (specifically Assam and Himalayan States) Impact State authorities receive critical short-range flood forecasts (up to 24-hour lead time) and early warnings for extreme weather events to facilitate disaster preparedness. Action Required Coordinate with the CWC and IMD to utilize forecast data for local emergency response and disaster management.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Central Water Commission (CWC) Impact These agencies are responsible for deploying advanced AI/ML models and maintaining the extensive network of 32 forecast stations and various meteorological observatories. Action Required Continue the development of high-resolution models and ensure the effective last-mile dissemination of weather and climate information.

General Public (Assam and Northeast Regions) Impact Residents benefit from improved accuracy in weather alerts and enhanced climate resilience through better-informed early warning systems. Action Required Adhere to the timely early warnings provided through the last-mile dissemination network during extreme weather events.