India Expands Doppler Weather Radar Network from 14 to 50 Units Since 2014: Over 250% Rise

📌 Summary:

• India's Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) network expanded from 14 operational units (2014) to 50 units — a 250%+ increase, announced by Dr. Jitendra Singh

• DWRs are critical for tracking cyclones, thunderstorms, extreme rainfall events, and improving monsoon forecasting accuracy

• Network expansion supports India Meteorological Department (IMD) modernisation and disaster preparedness

• DWR coverage now includes coastal areas, hilly regions, and interior plains for comprehensive weather monitoring

• Part of broader government push to improve weather services: Mausam app, automated weather stations

• DWR data feeds into NDRF pre-positioning for natural disasters, especially cyclones on Eastern/Western coasts

📌 UPSC Relevance:

• GS3: Science & Technology (meteorology tech), Disaster Management (early warning)

📌 Prelims Facts:

• DWR measures precipitation intensity and wind patterns using Doppler effect

• IMD is under Ministry of Earth Sciences | India has C-band and S-band DWRs

• Target: 60 DWRs for full coverage across India's diverse geography