Under the PMFBY modernization efforts, which system has been developed to improve hyper-local weather data infrastructure, and what specific infrastructural elements does it include?

WINDS (Weather Information and Network Data Systems) has been designed to improve access to block-level and panchayat-level weather data. It includes setting up Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and Automatic Rain Gauges (ARGs) and is being implemented in 9 states like Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and UP. Important Points: • Component of: PMFBY via FIAT Fund •  Full Form: WINDS – Weather Information and Network Data Systems • Objective: Improve availability of hyper-local weather data • Key Features: o AWS at block level; ARGs at panchayat level o Target: 5x increase in weather station density o Initially delayed to 2024–25 for better preparation o 90:10 Centre:State fund ratio for first-year implementation o Being rolled out in 9 states: Kerala, UP, Himachal, Assam, etc.