Jammu RMC inauguration enhances weather forecasting and public safety in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh
JAMMU, JUNE 5 — Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, and Science and Technology, Satish Sharma, described the inauguration of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu as a landmark achievement.
He stated that the new centre will significantly strengthen weather forecasting capabilities, disaster preparedness, scientific research, and public safety across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, he congratulated the Ministry for Earth Sciences, the India Meteorological Department, and all involved stakeholders, noting that elevating the local office to a regional centre recognizes the unique climatic challenges of the Himalayan region.
The minister highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are among the most climatically sensitive areas globally. He emphasized that the centre is a transformative step toward providing accurate, localized, and timely weather services essential for safeguarding lives and supporting livelihoods.
Given the regional vulnerability to avalanches, flash floods, and cloudbursts, the facility will offer specialized expertise in mountain meteorology, cryosphere studies, and high-altitude weather services to benefit farmers, security forces, tourists, and disaster response agencies.Sharma affirmed the commitment of the Jammu and Kashmir government to strengthening scientific institutions and integrating advanced technologies like data analytics to improve public service delivery.
He assured full administrative support for the expansion and operation of the centre. He also encouraged young scientists and researchers to pursue excellence, noting that their data and forecasts will be critical for protecting lives and supporting sustainable development.
Additionally, he praised Union Minister for Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh and the ministry leadership for facilitating the establishment of the centre.During the event, Sharma also reiterated the long-pending aspiration of the local population for the restoration of full statehood, arguing it would strengthen democratic institutions and administrative efficiency.
Furthermore, he called for expedited progress on regional railway connectivity projects, specifically targeting the proposed Jammu–Akhnoor–Khour belt and the Kaleeth–Dori Dager railway links, to boost tourism, trade, and socio-economic development.