India has extended invitations to Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other neighboring countries to participate in a unique seminar marking 150 years of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This initiative aims to set aside political differences and highlight the shared history of the Indian subcontinent. The seminar is being hailed as a first-of-its-kind effort by the Indian government to foster regional cooperation.

Invitations have been sent to Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, as well as officials from the Middle East, Central, and Southwest Asia. While Pakistan has confirmed its participation, Bangladesh's confirmation is still awaited. If Bangladesh confirms, it will be a historic moment for the subcontinent. An official from IMD stated that the event aims to bring together officials from countries that were part of undivided India during the department’s establishment.

To mark this special occasion, the Indian government is releasing a commemorative Rs 150 coin. Additionally, a special tableau showcasing the IMD's achievements will be featured during Republic Day celebrations.

A Brief History of the IMD:
The India Meteorological Department was established on January 15, 1875, after devastating weather events like the 1864 Calcutta cyclone and the famines caused by monsoon failures in the 1860s. Before the IMD’s formation, the British East India Company had set up several meteorological observatories across the subcontinent, such as in Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay.

The IMD grew into a key institution for weather forecasting in Asia. Over time, it has embraced technological advancements, collaborating with ISRO to launch India’s geostationary satellite, INSAT, for continuous weather monitoring. The IMD has made significant strides in weather science, data collection, and communication, making it a leader in the field.