India launches its first drone-AI-powered cloud seeding experiment at Jaipur’s Ramgarh Dam to trigger artificial rain, revive the reservoir, and boost water supply, agriculture, and biodiversity.
Event Details and Participation
The experiment is scheduled to begin at 2 PM, headed by Agriculture and Disaster Relief Minister Kirodi Lal Meena. Weather and technology experts, along with a large gathering of villagers led by MLA Mahendra Pal Meena, are present to witness the event.
Why Ramgarh Dam Was Chosen
Initially, Mansagar Dam near Jal Mahal was considered, but due to its smaller size and proximity to civilian areas, the site was shifted to Ramgarh Dam. The dam is larger, currently dry, and historically significant.
Historical Background
- Foundation laid: 30 December 1897 by Maharaja Madho Singh II.
- Construction completed: 1903.
- 1931: Viceroy Lord Irwin inaugurated the first drinking water supply scheme of Rajputana from here.
- 1982: Hosted Asian Games sailing competition.
How the Drone-AI Cloud Seeding Works
Cloud seeding involves spraying chemicals such as sodium chloride into clouds, which act as condensation nuclei, causing water vapor to condense into raindrops.
- Taiwan-made drones will fly thousands of feet high.
- They will spray sodium chloride into targeted clouds.
- The process aims to induce precipitation and fill the dam.
Multi-Department Coordination
The project involves coordination between Agriculture Department, Meteorology Department, Water Resources and Irrigation Departments, and Pollution Control Board. The DGCA has granted permission for drone flights. Data from the project will be recorded for one month for further analysis.
Previous Cloud Seeding Attempts in Rajasthan
A similar attempt was made at Ghosunda Dam in Chittorgarh, but it was unsuccessful. This time, improved AI and drone technology are expected to increase the chances of success.
History of Cloud Seeding in India
According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM):
- 1951: First attempt over the Western Ghats using ground-based silver iodide generators.
- 1952: Salt and silver iodide used via hydrogen-filled balloons.
- 1957–1966: Rain and Cloud Physics Research (RCPR) Unit conducted ground-based cloud seeding in north India, increasing rainfall by 20%.
- 1973–1977: Experiments over Tiruvallur (Tamil Nadu) and Mumbai.
- 1973–1986: Cloud seeding over Baramati (Maharashtra) led to a 24% increase in rainfall.
Significance of the Jaipur Experiment
This project is crucial because it uses modern drones and AI-based targeting to improve accuracy. It could revive the Ramgarh Dam, benefiting drinking water supply and agriculture. It demonstrates India’s ability to adopt cutting-edge weather modification technology for climate resilience and drought mitigation. If successful, it could pave the way for similar projects across drought-prone regions of India.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- India launches its first drone-AI-powered cloud seeding experiment at Jaipur’s Ramgarh Dam.
- The project aims to trigger artificial rain, revive the reservoir, and boost water supply, agriculture, and biodiversity.
- Cloud seeding involves spraying chemicals like sodium chloride into clouds to induce precipitation.
- The experiment showcases India’s adoption of advanced weather modification technology for climate resilience.
- If successful, similar projects could be implemented in other drought-prone regions of the country.
