[Answered] Discuss the potential benefits and challenges for India in engaging with the Northern Sea Route (NSR).

The Northern Sea Route (NSR), which spans four seas of the Arctic Ocean, is the quickest shipping route for moving goods between Europe and nations in the Asia-Pacific area. The route, which spans 5,600 km, starts at the Kara Strait, which separates the Barents and Kara seas and ends in Provideniya Bay, which is in the Bering Strait. Recently, Murmansk, or (NSR), has witnessed a significant rise in Indian cargo highlighting India’s greater interest in the NSR.

What are the intended benefits for India in engaging with NSR?

• Alternate route: The NSR is essentially a passage linking Europe with East Asia benefitting countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. This route is more promising and is being regarded as an alternative to the present shipping route connecting Europe with Asia via the Suez Canal and the piracy-infested Gulf of Aden.
• Scientific studies and research: Since the Svalbard Treaty was signed in February 1920, India has been involved in the Arctic, and the country is currently conducting several scientific research and studies there. This includes research in the fields of glaciology, marine biology, hydrology, and atmospheric science. Eg,Himadri, a research station, Svalbard.
• Untapped resources: The region also constitutes the largest unexplored prospective area for hydrocarbons remaining on the Earth. According to estimates, the Arctic Sea contains between 10 and 20 percent of the world’s oil and close to 30 percent of its natural gas. There could be sizable quantities of coal, zinc, and silver as well.

What are some of the challenges?

• Environmental concerns: One of the most dramatic effects of global warming is seen in the Arctic region where the Arctic Sea has been melting rapidly. The NSR passes through environmentally sensitive areas, and increased shipping activity in the Arctic could have ecological implications.
• Geopolitical Dynamics: The NSR passes through Russia’s territorial waters, and India’s engagement with the route could involve diplomatic negotiations with Russia and other Arctic states.
• Security: Piracy, maritime mishaps, and search and rescue operations could pose security concerns as the Arctic assumes greater geopolitical and economic relevance.
• International regulations: India would need to navigate international regulations governing Arctic shipping, including those related to safety, environmental protection, and indigenous rights.

Conclusion:

India’s geographical position and ambitious projects like the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor present promising economic and strategic benefits for India. India’s approach to the Arctic region is defined by the Arctic Policy of 2022 which is guided by UN Sustainable Development Goals.