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India has taken a significant step towards advancing its scientific capabilities with the inauguration of three Param Rudra supercomputers, dedicated to weather and climate research. These high-performance computing (HPC) systems, developed under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), represent a crucial investment in India's pursuit of self-reliance in computing and scientific innovation. The three Param Rudra supercomputers, valued at approximately Rs 130 crore, will be strategically deployed in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata, serving as powerful tools for high-performance scientific research and development.
The deployment of these supercomputers signifies a shift towards strengthening India's research infrastructure and bolstering its ability to tackle complex challenges in climate change and weather forecasting. The supercomputer in Pune, home to the Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope (GMRT), will be leveraged for research on fast radio bursts (FRBs) and other astrophysical phenomena. This collaboration between computational power and astronomical observation holds immense potential for unraveling mysteries of the universe.
In Delhi, the Inter-University Accelerator Centre will utilize the Param Rudra supercomputer to push the boundaries of research in physical sciences and nuclear physics. This development will contribute to a deeper understanding of the fundamental laws of nature and the development of advanced technologies. Meanwhile, in Kolkata, the S N Bose Centre will employ the supercomputer to enhance its offerings in advanced courses in physics, cosmology, and earth sciences, fostering a new generation of scientists and researchers.
The inauguration of these supercomputers also included the launch of 'Arka' and 'Arunika,' HPC systems specifically tailored for weather and climate research. These systems, developed under a total project cost of Rs 850 crore, are located at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune and the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) in Noida. The high-resolution models powered by these systems are expected to significantly enhance the accuracy and lead time of predictions related to crucial weather phenomena such as tropical cyclones, heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, hailstorms, heatwaves, droughts, and other critical events.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who emphasized the critical role of computing capacity in achieving national capability in the 21st century. He highlighted the direct dependence on science, technology, and computing capabilities for progress in research, economic growth, and other essential domains. The event also saw the participation of Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw. The launch of these supercomputers underscores India's commitment to harnessing the power of technology to address pressing issues such as climate change and its impact on the nation's well-being.
Source: PM Modi inaugurates three Param Rudra supercomputers for climate research