India’s Interaction with the Arctic
Introducing India’s Arctic Policy
Recently, news broke that the Ministry of Earth Science was revealing India’s new Arctic policy, named ‘India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development’. As one of the 13 Observers in the Arctic Council, India has taken an interest in this particular area. This international body seeks to encourage research while facilitating cooperation among Arctic countries on issues relating to environmental protection and sustainable development of the Arctic region.
India’s Historical Engagement with the Arctic
India’s interaction with Arctic started when it signed the Svalbard Treaty in Paris in 1920, alongside countries such as Norway, the US, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Great Britain, and Ireland. The treaty pertains to Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago in Norway, situated in the Arctic Ocean, which is permanently inhabited. Since then, India has kept tabs on events in the Arctic region, starting its own Arctic research program in 2007, directed towards climate change.
Key Elements of India’s Arctic Policy
The main features of India’s Arctic policy include six central pillars: science and research; environmental protection; economic and human development; transportation and connectivity; governance and international cooperation; and national capacity building. From strengthening national capabilities to deepening cooperative efforts with countries of the Arctic region, the policy signifies India’s intent to make substantial contributions to Arctic-related advancements.
Importance of Arctic for India
The Arctic holds substantial significance for India due to the shipping routes that traverse the region. Not only does it impact the availability of mineral and hydrocarbon resources, but it also alters global shipping routes. With the projection of an ice-free Arctic by 2050, India can play a pivotal role in securing a stable region, rich in natural resources.
Overview of the Arctic Region
The Arctic is a polar region located at the northernmost part of the Earth, comprising of the Arctic Ocean, adjacent seas, and parts of Alaska (United States), Canada, Finland, Greenland (Denmark), Iceland, Norway, Russia, and Sweden. The region experiences seasonally varying snow and ice cover.
Looking Ahead
India’s Arctic Policy provides needed guidance on India’s engagement with the region and adds to awareness about the Arctic within India and vice versa. It’s suggested that India should officially appoint an ‘Arctic ambassador/representative’ to represent and voice India’s perspectives on Arctic affairs better. Also, establishing a dedicated expert committee to plan, monitor, steer, implement and review India’s Arctic policy could streamline the country’s approach.