MEGHAYAN 2024

Focus: GS I: Geography

Why in News?

• As part of the World Meteorological Day celebrations, a METOC (Meteorological and Oceanographic) seminar _’Meghayan-24’_ was conducted by School of Naval Oceanology & Meteorology (SNOM) and Indian Naval Meteorological Analysis Centre (INMAC) on 28^th March 2024.
• Theme: The seminar was based on the theme -‘At the Frontline of Climate Action’-as promulgated by WMO for the year 2024.
• Aim: The event highlighted the need for accurate and immediate focus on the pressing challenge of climate change and to work together in the collective pursuit of common goal of ‘Achieving a Climate Smart Society’ under the global framework for climate services of WMO.

About World Meteorological Day:

• The World Meteorological Day is commemorated every year on 23rd March.
• It marks the origin of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on 23 Mar 1950 and signifies the invaluable contribution and essential role of the meteorologists in this field.

World Meteorological Organisation (WMO)

1. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for meteorology, climate, operational hydrology, and related geophysical sciences.
2. It serves as the authoritative voice within the UN system regarding the state and behavior of the Earth’s atmosphere, its interaction with the oceans, climate patterns, and the distribution of water resources.

• WMO plays a vital role in coordinating international efforts to monitor and assess atmospheric and climate systems, promoting research, facilitating data exchange, and providing weather and climate information for sustainable development.

History:

• The origins of WMO can be traced back to the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), established in 1873.
• In 1950, WMO was officially established as the specialized agency of the UN for meteorology, operational hydrology, and related geophysical sciences.
• Building upon the foundation laid by the IMO, WMO has expanded its scope and activities to address the evolving challenges in meteorology and climate science.

Headquarters and Membership:

• The headquarters of WMO is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Currently, WMO has a membership of 193 countries and territories, representing virtually all nations across the globe. The membership reflects the global recognition of the importance of international cooperation in meteorology, climate, and hydrology.

Governance Structure:

The governance structure of WMO comprises several key bodies responsible for policy-making, decision-making, and the day-to-day operations of the organization:

World Meteorological Congress:

• The World Meteorological Congress is the supreme body of WMO.
• It convenes at least every four years and brings together representatives from all member countries.
• The Congress establishes general policies, adopts regulations, and provides strategic guidance to WMO.

Executive Council:

• The Executive Council consists of 37 members, including the President and Vice-Presidents.
• It meets annually to implement policies and decisions made by the World Meteorological Congress.
• The Executive Council oversees the day-to-day operations and management of WMO.

Technical Commissions and Regional Associations:

• WMO operates through a network of technical commissions and regional associations.
• Technical commissions focus on specific areas of meteorology, hydrology, and related disciplines.
• Regional associations facilitate regional cooperation and the exchange of meteorological and hydrological information.

Secretariat:

• The Secretariat, headed by the Secretary-General, is responsible for the coordination and administration of WMO activities.
• It supports the implementation of policies and decisions made by the World Meteorological Congress and Executive Council.
• The Secretariat serves as the central hub for data exchange, research coordination, and capacity building initiatives.