Better weather predictions on cards: Minister

Studies and experiments in the field of earth sciences are underway for a better prediction of climatic conditions, Union Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Minister Harsh Vardhan said on Tuesday.

"Further studies and experiments in the field of earth sciences are underway for a better prediction of climatic conditions," he said, adding that substantial progress could be seen in the field of science and technology in next 365 days, according to an official statement.

"Various studies indicate that a financial benefit of about Rs.1 lakh crore has been accrued to farmers, fishermen and others, from predictions being made by various divisions of the ministry. The benefit to fishermen alone amounts to about Rs.50,000 crore," he said.

Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Y.S. Chowdary said efforts were being made to further improve the process of dissemination of weather forecasts to farmers, fishermen and other beneficiaries.