Understanding India’s Multifaceted Arctic Engagement in 2023

How is the Arctic Connected to India’s Monsoon and Climate?

The relationship between the Arctic and India’s monsoon is complex and significant. One of the main links is through atmospheric phenomena, such as the atmospheric river. As Arctic sea ice melts, it disrupts weather patterns, leading to irregular monsoons and extreme weather events in India.

Additionally, the Arctic serves as a major carbon sink, storing approximately 1.5 trillion metric tonnes of organic carbon. This is crucial for global climate stability. However, as the Arctic warms at a rate four times faster than the global average, melting ice and thawing permafrost release potent greenhouse gases, intensifying climate change impacts in India and worldwide.

What are the Economic Interests of India in the Arctic?

India's engagement in the Arctic is driven by several economic interests. The region holds significant reserves of oil, gas, and minerals, which become more accessible as ice recedes, allowing India to diversify its energy sources.

The opening of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) is a game-changer for trade, as it shortens the maritime distance between Europe and Asia. This development reduces shipping costs, fuel consumption, and transit times, enhancing India's trade competitiveness.

In December 2023, India embarked on its first winter expedition in the Arctic, marking a key milestone in its engagement. Four Indian climate scientists participated, overcoming extreme conditions like -15°C temperatures. This expedition allows for year-round data collection, crucial for understanding Arctic climate dynamics.

What are the Geopolitical Dimensions of India’s Arctic Engagement?

India's Arctic involvement is shaped by geopolitical tensions among major powers, including Russia, China, and the US. China's investments and Russia's strategic alliances raise concerns for India, as these dynamics could influence Arctic governance and regional security.

Historically, India's connection to the Arctic began with the Svalbard Treaty of 1920, and it established the Himadri research station in 2008, making India one of the few developing countries with a research base in the region.

India maintains strategic partnerships, collaborating with Western nations on climate research while preserving its traditional ties with Russia, which is essential for its interests in the Arctic.

What are the Six Pillars of India’s Arctic Policy?

• Scientific Research and Cooperation: Expanding India’s scientific presence and partnerships with Arctic nations.
• Climate and Environmental Protection: Commitment to sustainable practices to mitigate climate change impacts.
• Economic and Human Development: Leveraging Arctic resources while ensuring environmental sustainability.
• Transportation and Connectivity: Developing shipping routes like the NSR to boost trade connectivity.
• Governance and International Cooperation: Active participation in Arctic governance frameworks.
• National Capacity Building: Strengthening capabilities in polar research and related infrastructure.

What are the Challenges and Opportunities for India in the Arctic?

India faces several challenges in the Arctic, including extreme conditions that complicate missions, especially in winter. Balancing resource exploration with environmental concerns remains a significant challenge.

Geopolitical tensions, particularly between Western countries and Russia, add complexity to India's diplomatic positioning. However, opportunities exist in enhanced scientific collaboration with Arctic nations and potential economic gains from responsibly accessing resources.

India's responsible stakeholder approach in the Arctic enhances its credibility in global climate diplomacy, supporting sustainable policies.

Synopsis

India’s expanding engagement in the Arctic encompasses climate science, economic opportunities, and strategic diplomacy. With its recent winter expedition and comprehensive Arctic Policy, India aims to balance resource exploration with environmental stewardship, positioning itself as a key player in Arctic governance.

Quotation for Aspiring Civil Servants: “True stewardship of our planet involves making choices today that safeguard the most fragile ecosystems for tomorrow.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How does the Arctic affect India's monsoon?
Answer: The Arctic affects India's monsoon through atmospheric phenomena like atmospheric rivers, with melting ice disrupting weather patterns and leading to irregular monsoons and extreme weather events.

Q2. What are the key resources in the Arctic that interest India?
Answer: The Arctic holds significant reserves of oil, gas, and minerals. As ice recedes, these resources become more accessible, providing opportunities for India to diversify its energy sources.

Q3. What is India's approach to Arctic governance?
Answer: India actively participates in Arctic governance frameworks, including the Arctic Council, to shape policies and practices that align with global environmental standards.

Q4. What challenges does India face in Arctic expeditions?
Answer: India faces challenges like extreme cold, logistical difficulties, and balancing resource exploration with environmental protection during Arctic expeditions.

Q5. What is the significance of the Northern Sea Route for India?
Answer: The Northern Sea Route shortens maritime distances between Europe and Asia, reducing shipping costs and transit times, thus enhancing India's trade competitiveness.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary atmospheric phenomenon linking the Arctic to India’s monsoon?
A) Atmospheric river
B) Jet stream
C) Trade winds
D) Cyclonic activity
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: In which year did India establish the Himadri research station in the Arctic?
A) 2005
B) 2008
C) 2010
D) 2012
Correct Answer: B