UK-India Knowledge Exchange Workshop on AI-Based Climate Modelling Centre and Policy Making

The Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the British High Commission, today organized a one-day UK-India Knowledge Exchange Workshop on AI-Based Climate Modelling Centre and Policy Making.
The workshop focused on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in addressing climate-related challenges and explored how AI-based climate modelling can aid decision-making. Experts and stakeholders engaged in discussions on leveraging AI to enhance climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
Delivering the opening address, Shri Joram Beda, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Planning, Investment Promotion & Sustainable Development Department, and Director General, Meghalaya Climate Change Centre, emphasized the urgent need to tackle climate change. He highlighted the significance of subject-driven engagement and the potential for establishing a dedicated AI-based Climate Modelling Centre to address environmental challenges.
Shri R.S. Gill, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force, Government of Meghalaya, underscored the state’s commitment to forest conservation and the critical role of AI in climate action. He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts and communication in addressing climate-related concerns.
Speaking at the workshop, Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East & Northeast India, acknowledged Meghalaya’s visionary leadership in climate action. He emphasized the workshop’s significance in delivering tangible results and highlighted the shared commitment of the UK and India in tackling climate change, with an impact extending beyond Meghalaya and across India.
Experts from IIT Bombay, University College London, Aarhus University, and the Indian Meteorological Department shared insights on data-driven approaches, hydrological modelling, and ethical AI governance. Key discussions revolved around integrating AI in climate resilience, ensuring data accuracy, and developing a roadmap for an AI-based Climate Modelling Centre in Meghalaya.
Government departments, including the Soil and Water Conservation Department, Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA), and the Forest and Environment Department, presented on critical themes such asSprings and watershed management, GIS and UAV-driven digital transformation, Afforestation initiatives under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), AI applications in forestry and climate change mitigation
The key takeaways from the workshop emphasized the urgent need for data standardization, real-time monitoring, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Participants highlighted the importance of integrating AI in climate budgeting, enhancing data accessibility, and fostering regional cooperation to strengthen climate adaptation strategies.
This workshop marks a significant step toward establishing an AI-based Climate Modelling Centre in Meghalaya, paving the way for evidence-based climate policies and actionable solutions for environmental sustainability.