Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, often called the “Cyclone Man of India,” has been awarded the prestigious 2025 UN Sasakawa Award for Disaster Risk Reduction. The award recognises his exceptional work in advancing India’s cyclone forecasting systems and improving early warning mechanisms, which have saved thousands of lives.
The honour was presented at the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, a global forum that celebrates people and institutions working to make communities safer and more resilient. Dr. Mohapatra shared the individual award category with Professor Harkunti Rahayu from Indonesia.
A Lifelong Mission Rooted in Experience
Dr. Mohapatra’s journey is personal. After surviving a devastating cyclone as a young boy, he dedicated his life to ensuring others wouldn’t have to face similar tragedy. Today, he leads the India Meteorological Department (IMD), where his leadership has transformed the nation’s ability to predict and respond to tropical cyclones in the North Indian Ocean.
His efforts were critical during major storms like Cyclone Mocha in 2023, helping reduce fatalities despite the cyclone’s intensity.
Global Recognition for Innovation in Forecasting
The UN Sasakawa Award, supported by the Nippon Foundation and managed by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), honours those who make a lasting impact on disaster preparedness. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo praised Dr. Mohapatra’s “outstanding leadership,” noting how his work has helped deliver life-saving warnings to even the most remote communities.
Under his leadership, IMD now serves as a Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre for Tropical Cyclones in New Delhi, providing forecasts and alerts for neighbouring countries as well.
Beyond Borders: A Global Voice in Risk Reduction
Dr. Mohapatra’s influence extends far beyond India. In early 2025, the American Meteorological Society also honoured him with the Outstanding Service Award for his work in cyclone prediction and disaster communication.
He credits India’s progress in disaster risk reduction to teamwork both at home and through international cooperation. He thanked global partners like the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for supporting India’s growing leadership in weather-based risk reduction.
A Model for the Future
As climate change fuels more extreme weather events, Dr. Mohapatra’s story shows how science, technology, and clear communication can save lives. His work is now helping shape global strategies for early warning systems, with India playing a central role in global forecasting and disaster response efforts.
In his award acceptance speech, Dr. Mohapatra said: “Science and technology, combined with effective early warning communication that reaches the last mile, are key to saving lives.”
His achievements show what’s possible when personal passion meets professional excellence and when nations work together to protect the most vulnerable from disaster.