Smita Mishra 
FEATURE: From the serene village of Rajagurupur in Odisha’s Bhadrak district to the global stage of the World Meteorological Organization, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra’s journey is one of resilience, brilliance, and unwavering commitment to saving lives through science. Born on August 12, 1965, Mohapatra’s name has become synonymous with accurate cyclone forecasting in India. With over three decades of experience in meteorology, his efforts have transformed the India Meteorological Department (IMD) into a globally respected institution. His success is not only a personal triumph but a matter of immense pride for the state of Odisha and the country as a whole.
Mrutyunjay Mohapatra’s academic journey laid the foundation for his future contributions to atmospheric science. He earned his Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Physics, which provided him with a strong analytical background. In 1988, he began his career as a Junior Scientific Assistant at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) located in Chandipur, Odisha. This initial phase introduced him to advanced scientific research and critical thinking. For a brief period, from 1990 to 1992, he also served as a lecturer in Physics at DK College in Balasore district, where he inspired students with his deep knowledge and clarity of thought.
His entry into the India Meteorological Department in 1992 marked the beginning of a new chapter. Starting as a Meteorologist Grade-II Trainee at IMD Pune, he rapidly ascended through the ranks due to his dedication and excellence. In 2004, he became the Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Guwahati. His tenure there was marked by improved weather forecasting services across the northeastern region, a challenging terrain with unique meteorological dynamics. However, it was his appointment as Director General of Meteorology at IMD headquarters in New Delhi in 2019 that placed him in the national spotlight.
Under Mohapatra’s leadership, the IMD underwent significant modernization. Known for his data-driven and strategic approach, he prioritized the incorporation of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning into weather forecasting systems. These tools now help analyze massive datasets, including satellite imagery and radar signals, to detect early signs of extreme weather events. Mohapatra has been a key force in developing accurate models that can issue timely warnings for cyclones, thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and heatwaves.
One of his most notable contributions is in cyclone forecasting. India, particularly the eastern coast including Odisha, is prone to devastating cyclones. Mohapatra’s precise forecasts and timely warnings have been credited with saving thousands of lives over the years. His efforts during cyclones such as Phailin (2013), Hudhud (2014), Fani (2019), and Amphan (2020) have received international acclaim. By significantly reducing the loss of human life during such disasters, he has redefined the role of meteorology in disaster risk reduction.
His achievements have been recognized globally. In 2023, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra was elected as the third Vice-President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for a four-year term. This prestigious appointment made him one of the top decision-makers in the United Nations body responsible for coordinating global efforts in weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and disaster preparedness. Not only does this elevate India’s stature in the field of meteorology, but it also brings immense pride to Odisha, which has long battled nature’s fury.
In 2025, the American Meteorological Society honored him with the Outstanding Service Award. The award citation praised his “exceptional leadership and services” in enhancing tropical cyclone prediction and warning systems across the Indian Ocean region. This recognition from one of the world’s most respected meteorological institutions underscores his international influence and reinforces his standing as a global thought leader in climate science.
Beyond forecasting, Mohapatra has played a pivotal role in positioning the IMD as a key player in India’s climate resilience framework. Under his guidance, the IMD has strengthened its partnerships with other government agencies, academic institutions, and international organizations. The department now plays a crucial role in advising sectors such as agriculture, water management, and public health. Its climate services help farmers determine the best times to sow crops, aid planners in water resource management, and support health authorities in preparing for heatwaves or outbreaks linked to climate variability.
His vision for the IMD is forward-looking. As the organization celebrated its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025, Mohapatra laid out an ambitious roadmap for its future. He envisions a more technologically advanced IMD that uses high-resolution models, drones, and real-time data to provide hyper-local forecasts. He aims to ensure that even remote villages receive timely and accurate weather updates, enabling grassroots-level disaster preparedness. For Mohapatra, democratizing access to climate information is crucial for building a climate-resilient India.
Despite his national and international responsibilities, Mohapatra has always stayed connected to his roots. Odisha, a state often hit by cyclones and floods, has benefitted immensely from his expertise. His accurate warnings and collaborative efforts with the Odisha government have led to well-coordinated evacuations and disaster responses, often setting benchmarks for other states to follow. In many ways, he has become a symbol of Odisha’s resilience and scientific prowess. People from his home district of Bhadrak to the corridors of power in New Delhi regard him with immense respect.
What sets Mrutyunjay Mohapatra apart is not just his scientific acumen but his humane approach to weather science. He views every forecast as a potential lifesaver and every warning as a responsibility. His calm demeanor, clarity of communication, and commitment to public service have made him a trusted voice during times of crisis. In an era of climate uncertainty, his leadership brings a sense of assurance and direction.
As climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the importance of timely and accurate forecasting cannot be overstated. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra’s work exemplifies how science, when combined with vision and leadership, can make a real difference. His journey from a small village in Odisha to the helm of global meteorological governance is not just a personal story of success but an inspiring narrative for young Indians dreaming of contributing to nation-building through science and service.
In every sense, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra is a beacon of pride for Odisha and a guiding force for India’s weather preparedness. His contributions will not only be remembered in textbooks and policy documents but also in the countless lives saved and communities protected because one man chose to dedicate his life to understanding the skies.
