The State Meteorological Centre has celebrated World Meteorological Day in the city on Friday. Students from various schools were present on the occasion and they chanced to learn a lot about the way the Met centre functions. This year, the theme was based on ‘The sun, the earth and the weather’ regarding which an exhibition was hosted for the students and the local people by the officials of the centre.

Speaking on the occasion, the director of the State Met Centre Bikram Singh said, “India being the member of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) celebrates this day every year. We, however, are celebrating the day earlier because  of the fact that the majority of schools have a holiday on Saturday. The World Meteorological Day is celebrated on March 23. This year theme is ‘the sun, the earth and the weather’, three most essential things for human life. We will enlighten the students about the importance  of the knowledge of the weather and the changes  happening here over the years.”

He further said that the students are very keen on learning things about weather.  “Students are showing a great deal of  interest  in the matter. It is a matter of satisfaction for us. Students of many schools and colleges visit the Met Centre during their science tour.  We also receive queries from the students  regarding Meteorology."

Scientist B Rohit Thapliyal who was also present on the occasion said, “We have interactive posters and slides for the students to help them learn more about the earth. Along with this, we have some instruments for measuring temperature, wind speed and the like. All the slides have been prepared for the students to let them know more about the sun, earth and weather. I have noticed students of class 7th and 8th evincing a keen interest in this.  As the meteorological field is developing fast  it has always been a good career option for the students and now, particularly, it is a very good option.”