India has officially invited neighboring countries, including Bangladesh and Pakistan, to participate in the 'Unitary India' seminar, which marks the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The seminar, designed to honor the history and achievements of the region's meteorological advancements, aims to promote unity and collaboration within the South Asian subcontinent despite ongoing political differences.
Scheduled to take place in New Delhi, the event will also see invitations extended to other countries in the region, including Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. In addition to the South Asian nations, officials from several Middle Eastern and Central and Southwest Asian countries have also been invited.
While Pakistan has confirmed its participation, Bangladesh has yet to respond to the invitation. Indian officials are awaiting a formal response from Dhaka, as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI).
The India Meteorological Department was established on January 15, 1875, following the devastating impact of cyclones in Kolkata in 1864 and floods in 1866 and 1871, which highlighted the need for an organized weather monitoring system. Originally headquartered in Kolkata, the department relocated to Shimla in 1905, then to Pune in 1928, and finally settled in Delhi in 1944.
The 'Unitary India' seminar offers an important platform for regional cooperation and dialogue, providing an opportunity for the participating nations to reflect on their shared history. The inclusion of Bangladesh and Pakistan in this event underscores India's desire to foster stronger regional ties, even amidst complex political dynamics. This gathering could serve as a pivotal moment for building understanding and trust in the region, offering potential for future collaboration.