Ashoka University brings AI to weather forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Ashoka University have joined hands to boost research and data sharing in climate science and weather forecasting. This partnership was formalized during Ashoka University’s second annual workshop on “AI/ML Methods in Weather and Climate Modelling,” held at the Safexpress Centre for Data, Learning, and Decision Sciences.

The collaboration aims to develop advanced models to predict extreme weather events, assess climate risks, and support better disaster preparedness. By combining IMD’s extensive datasets with Ashoka University’s expertise in analytics and machine learning, both institutions hope to make forecasting more accurate and useful.

The partnership will also encourage joint research in fields like meteorology, hydrology, agro-meteorology, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, it will create opportunities for students through training programs and internships, giving them hands-on experience with real-world climate data.

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra noted that the collaboration benefits both sides: the university gains access to IMD’s operational experience and data, while IMD can leverage Ashoka’s analytical and academic strengths. Ashoka University Vice-Chancellor Somak Raychaudhury added that this partnership will help improve weather forecasts and better prepare communities for climate-related challenges.

Overall, this initiative marks an important step toward combining science, technology, and education to tackle the growing risks of climate change.