The Arctic region, once considered a remote and inaccessible area, has gained global prominence due to climate change, emerging sea routes, vast natural resources, and geopolitical competition.
India’s Steps with Reference to the Arctic
Himadri Station (2008)- India’s first permanent research base at Svalbard (Norway).
IndARC (2014)- India’s first multi-sensor moored observatory in the Kongsfjorden fjord to monitor Arctic climate changes.
India was granted Observer status in the Arctic Council in 2013
Arctic Policy (2022)- six pillars
Research, climate, and environmental protection
Promoting economic and human development
Enhancing transportation and connectivity
Improving governance and international cooperation
Building national capacity in Arctic studies.
Polar Research Vessel (PRV)- indigenous ice-breaker to ensure independent logistical capability.
Reasons Behind India’s Interest in the Arctic
Arctic and Monsoon Linkages
Arctic warming affects Himalayan cryosphere, monsoon patterns, and extreme weather events.
Melting sea ice influences ocean circulation and jet streams, impacting Indian agriculture and water security.
Geopolitical Reasons
Voice in emerging Arctic governance – observer status in the Arctic Council helps India participate in rule-making for global commons.
Balancing major power competition – Eg- By strengthening its presence, India counters China’s self-proclaimed “Near-Arctic State” status.
Ensures India is not excluded from evolving Eurasian polar geopolitics. Eg- Collaboration with Norway and Iceland in polar research diplomacy.
Geo-economic Reasons
Access to critical minerals – Arctic has deposits of rare earths, nickel, cobalt, and phosphates, essential for India’s manufacturing and clean-tech sectors.
New opportunities for trade and investment – Eg- Indian companies exploring LNG projects in the Russian Arctic.
Blue economy prospects – Sustainable fisheries and bio-resources for food and pharmaceutical industries.
Energy Security
The Arctic holds nearly 13% of undiscovered oil and 30% of natural gas.
Supports India’s energy security and transition to a gas-based economy.
Eg- Indian investment in Vostok Oil and Yamal LNG projects (Russia).
Clean energy research – Cooperation in offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon sequestration studies in polar conditions.
Connectivity and Maritime Trade
Melting ice is opening Northern Sea Route (NSR) and Trans-Arctic routes These routes can-
Reduce India-Europe travel distance by up to 40%
Lower logistics cost and time.
Strengthen India’s maritime trade and Sagarmala initiative.
Reduces dependence on vulnerable chokepoints like the Suez Canal.
Eg- Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor.
India’s engagement reflects a responsible stakeholder approach, balancing environmental sustainability with strategic and economic interests