The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, has announced plans to set up a climate observation station in Bikaner, Rajasthan. Partnering with Bikaner Technical University, the initiative will strengthen India’s Bharat Climate Observation Network (BCON) and generate long-term datasets crucial for climate research and policy planning.
In a significant step toward advancing India’s climate science, IITM Pune has signed an MoU with Bikaner Technical University to establish a climate observation station in Bikaner. This facility will be part of the Bharat Climate Observation Network (BCON), a national program designed to monitor critical climate variables across diverse regions.
The station will record meteorological parameters, greenhouse gases, trace gases, and short-lived climate forcers. These datasets will help scientists study climate change impacts, improve forecasting models, and support evidence-based policymaking.
Locating the station in Bikaner is particularly strategic, as Rajasthan’s arid and semi-arid zones are highly vulnerable to global warming. The collaboration highlights the importance of regional partnerships in building national climate resilience and ensuring India remains at the forefront of global climate research.
Key Highlights
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IITM Pune to set up climate station in Bikaner
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Part of Bharat Climate Observation Network (BCON)
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MoU signed with Bikaner Technical University
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Focus on greenhouse gases and meteorological parameters
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Supports climate change research and policy decisions
Sources: Hindustan Times, IITM Pune, Bikaner Technical University