Invitations have been extended to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Additionally, representatives from the Middle East and Southwest Asia are on the guest list. A senior IMD official stated, "We wanted officials from all countries which were part of undivided India at the time of IMD's establishment to be part of the celebrations."
Pakistan has confirmed its participation, while the IMD awaits responses from other invitees. To mark the occasion, the Ministry of Finance has approved a special ₹150 commemorative coin. The celebrations will feature marathons, exhibitions, workshops, and olympiads, reflecting the vibrant spirit of India's weather diversity. Notably, for the first time, the IMD will showcase its own tableau during the Republic Day parade, highlighting its legacy and contributions to meteorology.
The IMD was established following the devastating Calcutta cyclone of 1864 and consecutive monsoon failures in 1866 and 1871. Over the years, it has evolved from a modest setup into a global leader in weather forecasting, communication, and scientific innovation. In its early years, the IMD utilized telegrams to disseminate weather warnings. It later became a technological pioneer, introducing India's first message-switching computer for global data exchange and one of the earliest electronic computers for meteorological research. India also became the first developing country to launch its own geostationary satellite, INSAT, facilitating round-the-clock weather monitoring and cyclone alerts.
The decision to include neighboring countries in the celebrations underscores a commitment to regional cooperation and acknowledges the shared meteorological history of the subcontinent. By inviting these nations, India aims to strengthen ties and promote collaborative efforts in weather forecasting and disaster management, areas of critical importance given the region's susceptibility to climatic events.
The commemorative coin, valued at ₹150, symbolizes the century-and-a-half journey of the IMD. Such coins are traditionally issued to mark significant milestones and serve as a tribute to the institution's enduring legacy. The planned events, including marathons and exhibitions, are designed to engage the public and raise awareness about the IMD's pivotal role in safeguarding lives and property through accurate weather predictions.
The inclusion of an IMD tableau in the Republic Day parade is a historic first, offering the department an opportunity to visually narrate its evolution and achievements to a nationwide audience. This initiative reflects the government's recognition of the IMD's contributions to national development and disaster preparedness.