India’s polar expeditions into the Arctic and Antarctic signify the nation’s dedication to scientific research, environmental studies, and geopolitical interests in these remote regions. However, they encounter formidable challenges— such as extreme climates and logistical hurdles. Despite these obstacles, India has shown resolve in advancing polar research, fostering innovative technologies, international collaborations, and gathering deep insights into these critical ecosystems.
For instance, recently India sent off its first winter expedition of scientists to the Himadri Research Station in the Arctic, which will now remain operational throughout the year.
What are India’s initiatives in the field of Polar Research in the Arctic and Antarctic?
Arctic Region | Antarctic Region |
| 1) India’s Arctic Policy was released in 2022: It is built on six central pillars: Science and research, Environmental protection, Economic and human development, Transportation and connectivity, Governance and international cooperation, and National capacity building. 2) Arctic Council: India holds one of the 13 positions as the Observer in the Arctic Council (a forum of countries that decides on managing the region’s resources and popular livelihood). 3) In 2008, India opened a research base Himadri in Svalbard, Norway. It is India’s first permanent Arctic research station. 4) India also has one underwater Arctic observation station, set up in 2015, called IndARC.
Map of Svalbard in the Arctic. Inset shows the ‘Himadri’ station. Source: CG Deshpande, ResearchGate. | 1) India’s first expedition to Antarctica was in 1981. 2) In 1983, India signed the Antarctic Treaty. 3) India built its first research base, Dakshin Gangotri, in 1983-84. It was excavated in 1989 and now operates as a supply base and transit camp. 4) The Maitri Base superseded Dakshin Gangotri in 1989. It is located atop the Schirmacher Oasis. India is rebuilding it to make it bigger and last for at least 30 more years. 5) Bharati Base was established in 2012, located next to Larsmann Hill. 6) Sagar Nidhi: In 2008, India commissioned the Sagar Nidhi ice-class vessel for research. It can cut through thin ice and is the first Indian vessel to navigate Antarctic waters. Source: NCPOR 7) The Indian Antarctic Bill was passed in 2022, giving effect to the Antarctic Treaty. |
Apart from the above:
1. National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research: It is an autonomous R&D institution of the Ministry of Earth Sciences. It is the nodal agency for India’s polar explorations. It is responsible for planning, promotion, coordination and execution of India’s entire Polar and Southern Ocean scientific research.
2. Polar Science and Cryosphere (PACER) Scheme: It encompasses the following components: a) Construction of polar research vessel. b) Construction of the third research base in Antarctica. c) Indian scientific endeavours in the Arctic. d) Polar expeditions-Antarctica. e) Southern Ocean Expedition.
What is the significance of India conducting research in the Arctic and Antarctic region?
India’s research endeavors in the Arctic and Antarctic regions hold several significant implications:
1) Scientific Exploration: These regions are critical for understanding global climate patterns, biodiversity, biological, geological, glaciological and earth sciences research. The polar regions offer a pure environment for this.
2) Climate Change Study: Since these regions are disproportionately more affected by climate change (for e.g. Arctic Amplification), they can provide deeper insights into the effects of climate change, such as melting ice caps and rising sea levels.
3) Geopolitical Significance Interests: The region holds huge geopolitical importance.
For instance, the Arctic is projected to be ice-free by 2050 which will lead to a race to exploit the region’s natural resources and shipping routes (for e.g. Northern Sea Route (NSR)).
India’s research allows it to have a stake in discussions related to resource management, shipping routes, and geopolitical interests.
4) Resource Exploration: For instance, the Arctic region is estimated to hold over 40% of the current global reserves of oil and gas and could hold significant reserves of coal, zinc and silver.
5) Studying the Impact on Monsoons: Understanding changes in polar ice caps can have implications for India’s monsoon patterns. Melting ice caps can influence global ocean currents, potentially affecting the Indian monsoon system, which is vital for agriculture and the economy.
6) Studying the Himalayan Cryosphere: The Himalayas are considered as a “third pole”. Because of its similarities with the Polar regions, polar research findings could be applied to understanding the Himalayan region.
7) Technological Advancement: Conducting research in such extreme environments requires developing cutting-edge technology and infrastructure. This can lead to technological advancement in other sectors of the economy as well.
8) Fosters Global Partnerships: Participating in research initiatives in these regions strengthens India’s collaborations with other nations. It fosters international cooperation and allows for the sharing of expertise, resources, and data. For e.g. Arctic Council, Antarctic Treaty.
What are the challenges in pursuing research in the Arctic and Antarctic region?
India faces several challenges in pursuing research in the Arctic and Antarctic regions:
1) Harsh Environmental Conditions: The extreme cold, remoteness, and harsh weather conditions in these regions pose significant logistical and operational challenges.
Accessibility to these regions is limited, leaving researchers with a small window of time to conduct studies.
2) High Operational Costs: Operating in the Arctic and Antarctic is expensive due to transportation, equipment, and logistical needs. Long-term research programs can strain India’s financial resources.
3) International Competition: India may face challenges in securing its position for conducting research in the polar regions due to rising competition between countries for the region’s resources.
4) Technological Challenges: Developing and deploying technology suitable for extreme polar conditions is a challenge. Equipment needs to withstand low temperatures, high winds, and other harsh environmental factors.
5) Limited Human Resources: India may face a shortage of specialized personnel, including scientists, engineers, and support staff, with expertise in polar research.
Also, managing the physical and mental well-being of personnel in isolation are significant challenges.
6) Legal-Regulatory Issues: Adhering to national and international regulations and agreements related to polar research, environmental protection, and resource utilization poses legal challenges. Compliance with various treaties and protocols while conducting research can be a challenge.
Way Forward:
For India to advance its research in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, the following steps can be undertaken:
1) Investment in Infrastructure: Allocate funds for establishing and maintaining research stations, laboratories, and specialized facilities in these polar regions.
2) Capacity Building and Training: Invest in training programs and educational initiatives to build a skilled workforce specializing in polar research. Encourage collaboration between academia, research institutions, and industry to foster expertise in relevant fields.
3) International Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships with other nations engaged in polar research. Promote open access to data and information collected from other polar researchers.
4) Long-term Commitment and Funding: Ensure sustained financial support for polar research programs, acknowledging the long-term nature of scientific exploration in these regions.
5) Remote Sensing and Satellite Technology: Leverage advancements in remote sensing and satellite technology to monitor polar environments.
6) Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government entities, research institutions, and private industries to leverage resources, expertise, and technology for polar research initiatives.
7) Policy Advocacy and Diplomacy: Actively engage in international forums to advocate for policies supporting sustainable and responsible polar research. Strengthen diplomatic ties to facilitate collaborative research agreements and resource-sharing initiatives.
By adopting a multifaceted approach that combines investment in infrastructure, human capital, technology, collaboration, and policy support, India can advance its research efforts in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
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