The India Meteorological Department was organised in 1875 as a centralised agency for the whole of India with the object of systematic study of climate and meteorology and application of the knowledge thus acquired to issue weather forecasts and storm  and  other warnings.

Though meteorological observation with the aid of instruments was in vogue from 1796, its application for economic activities began only  later  with the issue of first seasonal forecast of monsoon rainfall in 1886. Towards the end of 19th century, geomagnetic, astrophysical and seismological observations were also amalgamated with the Department of Meteorology. This Department  has  grown  steadily  and  now  has a highly improved cyclone warning arrangement.  Its  service  to  the  cause of aviation, agriculture, shipping, irrigation and town planning is also praise­ worthy. About 500 surface observatories and a large number of upper air stations, radars and other sophisticated equipments enable the Department to discharge its functions. Most of the instruments  required  are manufactured in the workshops  of  the Department.

As a member of the World Meteorological Organisation, the Indian Meteorological Department has made  significant contribution to its activities and has made available to other countries the services of experts in weather services.

The Posts and Telegraphs Department are happy to mark the centenary of the Indian Meteorological  Department  by the issuance of a commemorative postage stamp.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India