Introduction
The Arctic, previously a distant and icy wilderness, is fast becoming an important stage for climate diplomacy, competition for resources, and strategic interests. For India, a non-Arctic state, the region is both a scientific necessity and a geopolitical chance. As global warming hastens the thawing of Arctic ice, unlocking new shipping lanes and revealing enormous deposits of resources, India’s presence in the Arctic has transformed from scientific inquiry to a multifaceted approach involving climate change, energy security, trade, and world order.
India’s Arctic Footprint: From Science to Strategy
Initial Involvement and Scientific Diplomacy
India’s Arctic odyssey started in an era of scientific inquiry. In 2008, India commissioned the Himadri research station in Svalbard, Norway, and emerged as one of the very few developing nations to have a permanent presence in the Arctic. Indian scientists have since been engaged in glaciology, atmospheric sciences, and the effect of Arctic variations on the Indian monsoon, highlighting the interrelatedness of global climate patterns.
India’s research is managed by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and involves engagement in international scientific entities and joint ventures. India’s scientific efforts have enhanced its position as a responsible stakeholder in polar research.
Observer Status at the Arctic Council
In 2013, India received Observer status in the Arctic Council, the highest intergovernmental body for Arctic governance, and has been re-elected to this position. The status permits India to engage in the activities of the Council, contribute to working groups, and express its views on sustainable development, environmental protection, and the rights of indigenous peoples. Although Observers lack voting rights, the presence of India guarantees its interests are heard as the political and economic dynamics of the region change.
Climate Diplomacy: India’s Arctic Policy and Global Role
The Six Pillars of India’s Arctic Policy
India’s Arctic Policy, published in 2022, rests on six pillars:
- Science and Research: Broadening scientific discovery and knowledge of Arctic climate processes.
- Climate and Environmental Protection: Meeting the world’s needs by addressing the global effects of Arctic warming and pushing for sustainable development.
- Economic and Human Development: Looking into opportunities in energy, minerals, and blue economy sectors.
- Connectivity and Transportation: Utilizing emerging shipping avenues such as the Northern Sea Route (NSR) for efficient trade.
- International Cooperation and Governance: Encouraging multilateralism and fair access to resources.
- Capacity Building in the National Sector: Building competence in polar sciences, maritime law, and navigation of the Arctic.
Such a holistic approach makes India a balancer between the Global North and South, a champion of climate justice, and a responsible custodian of the Arctic commons.
Climate Change and the Monsoon Link
The Arctic is warming four times quicker than the global average, prompting cascading impacts on global weather patterns. Indian scientists have spotlighted the way Arctic ice loss can destroy the Indian monsoon, impacting agriculture, water security, and livelihoods for millions. Through investing in research in the Arctic, India hopes to improve forecasting and adapt to risks posed by climate at home.
Multilateral Climate Action
India’s diplomatic campaign in the Arctic is not limited to regional platforms. India emerged as a leading force in building consensus on climate protection at the G20 Summit, with a focus on inclusive governance and ecosystem protection in the Arctic. As a climate facilitator, India promotes reforms in the governance of the Arctic to facilitate long-term sustainability and universal access for all countries.
Strategic and Economic Interests
Energy Security and Access to Resources
The Arctic contains an estimated 13% of the globe’s yet to be discovered oil and 30% of its gas reserves, as well as rare earth minerals vital for technology and energy transition. Indian investment in Russian Arctic oil and gas ventures and joint working with Nordic nations is focused on diversification of energy sources and acquiring future growth-critical minerals.
The Northern Sea Route (NSR) and Maritime Connectivity
The NSR, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, is increasingly accessible for greater durations because of melting ice. For India, the NSR provides a shorter, cheaper route of trade with Europe and East Asia, avoiding historic choke points such as the Suez Canal. The Chennai–Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor, with Russia, is a strategic move to connect Indian trade with Arctic supply chains and add maritime resilience.
Geopolitical Balancing and Strategic Autonomy
India’s Arctic outreach is also influenced by the changing security landscape of the region. With China advancing its footprint in the Arctic and Russia going deeper with its energy alliances, India aims to preserve strategic autonomy while thwarting any single power from hegemony in the Arctic. By hitching its wagon to the Nordic nations and using its observer status, India presents itself as a responsible actor promoting peace, stability, and multilateralism.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Even as it gains traction, India has challenges in converting Arctic aspirations into hard facts. Limited influence in the Arctic Council, the expense of polar research, and the intricacies of maneuvering great power rivalries necessitate continued diplomatic and scientific efforts.
To overcome these, India needs to:
- Institutionalize Arctic outreach among ministries and think tanks.
- Enlarge scientific infrastructure and develop polar experts.
- Enhance cooperative relationships with Arctic states for technology transfer and renewable energy.
- Support an Arctic Blue Economy Treaty striking a balance between growth and preservation.
- Apply space capabilities to Arctic monitoring and data exchange.
Conclusion
The Arctic is India’s new climate diplomacy and strategic frontier. As the region changes, India’s proactive involvement—science-based, sustainable, and multilateral—will be key to determining the future of the global commons. By reconciling climate change action with economic and security needs, India can assist in keeping the Arctic a region of peace, stability, and common prosperity