Pakistan, Bangladesh Invited to 'Undivided India' Event; Islamabad Confirms Participation

In a historic initiative, India has extended invitations to Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other neighboring countries to attend an 'undivided India' event, celebrating 150 years of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This seminar aims to highlight the shared history of the Indian subcontinent, transcending political differences.

The event is unprecedented, with invites sent to Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Additionally, officials from the Middle East, Central, and Southwest Asia have also been invited.

Pakistan Confirms Participation

Islamabad has confirmed its attendance, marking a rare moment of collaboration between India and Pakistan. A response from Bangladesh is awaited, and if confirmed, it will add to the significance of this milestone event. An official from the IMD remarked, "We wanted all nations that were part of undivided India at the time of IMD's establishment to join these celebrations."

Special Initiatives for the Occasion

• Commemorative Coin: The Finance Ministry will release a limited-edition Rs 150 coin to honor the occasion.
• Republic Day Tableaux: The Home Ministry has approved a special tableau showcasing the IMD's legacy for India's Republic Day celebrations.

A Glimpse into IMD’s History

The India Meteorological Department was founded on January 15, 1875, following devastating cyclones and famines in the 1860s. Initially headquartered in Calcutta, the IMD relocated to Shimla, Pune, and finally New Delhi in 1944.

From its modest beginnings under British rule, IMD has grown into a global leader in meteorological research and forecasting. Over the years, it has pioneered advancements in weather sciences and collaborated with ISRO, becoming the first developing nation to launch its geostationary weather satellite, INSAT.

This event, celebrating IMD's 150-year journey, serves as a reminder of the shared roots and scientific advancements that unite the Indian subcontinent.