Experts from India and abroad got together to discuss and share research experiences on climatic changes that the world is witnessing and their impact on society and ways to mitigate them at a four-day national symposium on Weather and Climate Extremes that began at Panjab University here today.
Inaugurating the symposium titled “Tropmet-2015”, the former secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Dr T Ramasami, stressed the need for technical and academic advancement in the field to ensure that meteorologists become an agent of change for society.
In light of the current changes observed in climate and weather patterns, he dwelled on the relevance of the seminar for the looming crises of climate change, polluted and depleting water resources and soil degradation as this is an area of major and immediate impact for the food supply chain.
The Director-General, India Meteorological Department (IMD), Dr LS Rathore, urged for existence in harmony with nature that would have positive fallout on climate and weather patterns.
He said timely and accurate prediction of the latest cyclonic storm, “Hud-Hud”, in the Bay of Bengal had saved many lives. He also gave an overview of IMD upgradation projects and future plans.
The Director, Snow and Avalanche Studies Establishment, Ashwagosha Ganju, said climate, climatic changes and associated issues affect all walks of life and addressing these issues was no longer an option but an imperative mission for everyone.
In his presidential remarks, Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Prof AK Grover said such symposiums boost research in climate extremes and disasters and increase the interface with society.
He proposed that the Department of Geography should establish a centre for geosciences/earth sciences, involving other associated government organisations, which would promote interdisciplinary teaching and research.
Several technical sessions are also being held during the symposium that would include 108 oral presentations, 54 invited talks, five special lectures and 87 poster presentations.