Why in the News?
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare have initiated the Weather Information Network and Data System (WINDS) to generate long-term, hyper-local weather data.
About WINDS:
- It set up a robust mechanism to integrate weather data, pooled from different weather observation systems in the country, into a single national level WINDS portal.
- Under this programme, more than 2 lakhs ground stations will be installed, o which can help in enhancing weather data utilisation and thus in improving weather predictions and decision making.
About Hyperlocal Weather Forecasting
- Hyperlocal weather forecasting provides granular and localized weather predictions.
- It enables farmers to make informed decisions about planting, irrigation, and harvesting based on real-time weather data specific to their location.
- This approach utilizes advanced technology, such as high-resolution weather models, weather sensors, and data analytics.