India’s growing fascination with the Arctic region is a strategic response rooted in its evolving geopolitical and economic interests. Historically, India’s engagement with the Arctic was limited, given its geographical distance from the polar expanse. However, in recent years, the melting of polar ice caps has opened new maritime routes, transforming the Arctic into a pivotal arena for global trade and resource exploration. Recognizing the region’s emerging significance, India has strategically pivoted its attention towards the Arctic, driven by the prospect of enhanced connectivity and trade opportunities. Moreover, India’s concerns over climate change and its potential impact on the Indian subcontinent have intensified its interest in the Arctic, as the region plays a crucial role in influencing global climate patterns. In addition to economic considerations, India’s diplomatic outreach to Arctic nations reflects a proactive approach to multilateral engagements, aligning with its broader foreign policy goals of fostering collaboration and diversifying strategic partnerships. As the Arctic undergoes profound changes, India’s keen interest reflects a nuanced understanding of the region’s geopolitical and economic implications.
Tag: Distribution of key Natural Resources (World, S. Asia, Indian subcontinent).
Decoding the Question:
- In the Introduction, write the definition of the Arctic region.
- In Body, state the reasons why India is interested in the region, steps taken to ensure it, and the environmental impact of it.
- Conclude by stating the benefits that India is expecting to reap from the region.
Answer:
The Arctic region, the enormous area around the North Pole spreading over one-sixth of the earth’s landmass, is increasingly being affected by external global forces – environmental, commercial, and strategic, and in turn, is poised to play an increasingly greater role in shaping the course of world affairs. Its implications have caught India’s interest. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, India’s interests in the Arctic Ocean region are commercial, strategic, environmental, and scientific.
India’s Interest in the Arctic Region:
- Geopolitical Importance: As the Arctic region gains geopolitical significance due to the opening of new maritime routes and potential resource exploration, India aims to actively engage with Arctic affairs to safeguard its interests and contribute to regional governance discussions.
Example: In 2018, India signed a Joint Statement with Finland, highlighting their commitment to promoting sustainable development in the Arctic and exploring opportunities for collaboration in various fields.
- Economic Opportunities: The melting ice in the Arctic has led to the opening of new shipping routes, such as the Northern Sea Route (NSR), which can significantly reduce shipping distances between India and Europe. India sees potential economic opportunities in utilizing these routes for trade and connectivity.
Example: In 2020, India joined the ‘Arctic Economic Council’ (AEC) as an observer member. By becoming a part of the AEC, India aims to explore potential economic opportunities and partnerships with Arctic businesses and stakeholders.
- Access to Natural Resources: The Arctic region is believed to hold vast reserves of oil, natural gas, minerals, and fish. India’s growing economy and increasing energy demands have prompted interest in exploring and accessing these resources for energy security and industrial needs.
Example: In 2021, the Indian company Oil India Limited signed an agreement with Russia’s Gazprom Neft to explore and develop hydrocarbon resources in the Arctic region.
- Climate Research and Environmental Concerns: India, being vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, recognizes the importance of studying the Arctic’s climate and its influence on weather patterns. Understanding changes in the Arctic is crucial for climate research, monsoon prediction, and agricultural planning.
Example: In 2020, India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) partnered with Russia’s Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute to conduct a joint expedition in the Arctic to study climate change and its impact on the Indian monsoon.
- Arctic Council Observer Status: As an Observer in the Arctic Council, India actively participates in various working groups and expert meetings. India’s involvement in these discussions helps in understanding Arctic governance issues and contributes to the development of sustainable policies for the region.
Example: India was granted the status of Observer in the Arctic Council in 2013. As an Observer, India actively participates in discussions and consultations on Arctic matters, reflecting its commitment to Arctic governance and environmental protection.
- Scientific Research and Expeditions: India has conducted scientific research expeditions to the Arctic to study climate change, oceanography, marine biodiversity, and the impacts of melting ice. Such research contributes to global scientific knowledge and enhances India’s expertise in polar research.
Example: In 2019, India launched its first scientific expedition to the Arctic with the INS Himadri, an ice-class research vessel. The expedition aimed to study climate change, oceanography, and marine biodiversity, furthering India’s expertise in polar research.
- Energy Security and Resource Diversification: Access to Arctic resources, particularly hydrocarbons, can enhance India’s energy security and reduce its dependence on imported energy sources.
Example: In 2019, India and Russia signed a maritime route agreement, exploring the use of the Northern Sea Route for enhancing bilateral trade.
- Strategic Interests: As the Arctic region attracts interest from various global players, India seeks to assert its presence in the region to safeguard its interests, maintain strategic balance, and foster cooperative relationships with Arctic stakeholders.
Example: The NCPOR in Goa is actively engaged in Arctic-related research, strengthening India’s strategic interests and scientific capabilities.
- Sustainable Development: India is committed to promoting sustainable development in the Arctic region, aligning with its broader environmental and climate goals.
Example: India’s commitment to sustainable development in the Arctic is reflected in its engagement with Arctic Council initiatives like the ‘Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment’ (PAME).
The Arctic region is not regarded as a global common, and its discourse remains dominated by the Arctic Five countries and the Arctic Council. India now has ‘observer’ status in the Arctic Council. Therefore, it’s in India’s interest to make Arctic talks more accessible. With Russia, and China already placing their claims on various parts of the region, India should strive to promote its agenda in the Arctic Council. Pursuing the Arctic dream, India intends to take a step further to be a global power and position itself to challenge China in the future.
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