IMD is planning to revive District Agro Meteorology Units under GKMS scheme

District Agro-Meteorology Units in India

These were established by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in 2018 in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The aim was to use weather data to prepare and disseminate sub-district level agricultural advisories.

District Agro-Meteorology Units Working

• The DAMUs were located within Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
• Scientists and researchers trained in meteorology and agriculture were recruited as DAMU staff.
• They used weather data provided by the IMD like rainfall, temperature and wind speeds to prepare agricultural advisories related to sowing and harvesting, usage of fertilizers and pesticides, irrigation etc.
• These advisories were sent to millions of farmers across the country free-of-cost in local languages twice a week.
• They were shared via text messages, WhatsApp groups, newspapers and also through in-person communication from DAMU staff and KVK officers.
• These advisories provided weather information in advance, they helped farmers plan activities like irrigation.
• They also served as early warnings for extreme events like droughts and heavy rainfall. Many studies conducted over the years have stressed the benefits of agro-met advisories.

District Agro-Meteorology Units FAQs

Q1. What is Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI)?

Ans. It is India’s largest and foremost Institute in the field of research and higher education, and training in agricultural sciences. The Institute is situated in Delhi and is administered by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).