Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first ‘Open-Air Art Wall Museum’ at Mausam Bhawan

February 19, 2025

New Delhi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s first ‘Open Air Art Wall Museum’ at Mausam Bhawan in New Delhi, celebrating the 150-year journey of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This initiative, created in partnership with ‘Delhi Street Art’, transforms the walls of IMD’s headquarters on Lodhi Road into a vibrant display showcasing India’s advancements in meteorology, its historical significance, and the influence of weather science on society.

During the inauguration, Singh praised the IMD for its significant role in India’s socio-economic development through timely and accurate weather forecasts. He stated, “For 150 years, the India Meteorological Department has led in meteorological research, utilizing advanced technology to tackle the challenges posed by a changing climate. This artistic project enhances IMD’s outreach by engaging the public with the narrative of weather science.”

The art showcase at Mausam Bhawan features 38 unique murals that illustrate India’s meteorological history, the evolution of weather forecasting, and its effects on agriculture, disaster management, and daily life. The artwork highlights key meteorological events, technological advancements like satellites and radars, and IMD’s role in providing early warnings for cyclones, monsoons, and extreme weather.

Singh commended the creativity of Delhi Street Art and its late founder, Yogesh Saini, for transforming public spaces into artistic expressions. He remarked, “Art is a powerful medium, and this project effectively connects science and creativity, making complex meteorological concepts accessible to people of all ages.”

He also emphasized that IMD’s groundbreaking work in meteorology has not only helped in reducing disaster risks but has also significantly boosted economic activities, especially in agriculture, aviation, and marine sectors. “The accuracy and timeliness of IMD’s forecasts have enabled farmers, fishermen, and policymakers to make informed decisions, enhancing India’s resilience to climate uncertainties,” he noted.

M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, pointed out that this artistic initiative reflects IMD’s innovative public engagement approach. “By presenting scientific knowledge through art, we can raise awareness about the importance of meteorology in everyday life,” he said.

The murals also pay homage to India’s cultural and literary heritage, featuring historical references such as Kalidasa’s Meghaduta and the legendary musician Tansen, who is said to have influenced weather with his ragas. Other panels showcase India’s diverse climatic zones, weather safety guidelines, and the scientific evolution of meteorology.

Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s meteorological capabilities through ongoing investments in research, technology, and infrastructure, acknowledging the contributions of IMD’s scientists and the artistic team in creating an initiative that educates and inspires.