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India and the Arctic: A Strategic Imperative
Introduction
The Arctic region holds vast reserves of oil, natural gas, minerals, and hydrocarbons, making it an emerging economic and energy hub. India’s Arctic Policy (2022) initially focused on scientific research and climate studies, but its geopolitical and strategic dimensions remain underexplored. Given the evolving global power dynamics, India must integrate strategic considerations into its Arctic engagement to safeguard its interests.
Geopolitical Significance of the Arctic
- The Arctic is governed by eight nations: the United States, Canada, Denmark/Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, forming the Arctic Council.
- The region is warming four times faster than the global average, leading to:
- Melting ice caps and opening of new shipping routes.
- Increased oil and gas exploration.
- Key Shipping Routes:
- Northern Sea Route (NSR): Runs along Russia’s Arctic coast, reducing travel distances between East Asia and Europe by 40% compared to the Suez Canal.
- Northwest Passage (NWP): Sought by European nations for enhanced trade with Asia.
- Strategic Resource Reserves:
- 90 billion barrels of oil and 1,669 trillion cubic feet of natural gas (US Geological Survey, 2008).
- High transportation costs and regulatory challenges limit immediate commercial viability.
Security Dynamics and Militarisation
- The Ukraine crisis (2014, 2022) escalated security tensions in the Arctic between Russia and the West.
- Russia’s Military Buildup:
- Ballistic missile submarines (SLBMs) deployed in the region.
- Nuclear warhead storage facilities in the Kola Peninsula.
- Expansion of Arctic-specific military forces and bases.
- NATO’s Response:
- Finland and Sweden joined NATO, increasing Arctic tensions.
- Strengthening of air and naval capabilities in the Arctic.
- Russia views NATO’s expansion as a direct security threat.
- Challenges for the Arctic Council:
- Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (2022) led to a temporary suspension of the Council’s operations.Western Arctic states continued engagement without Russia, undermining pan-Arctic cooperation.
China’s Expanding Footprint in the Arctic
- China has declared itself a “Near-Arctic State”, intensifying its economic and military interests in the region.
- Through the Polar Silk Road, China is expanding its shipping and resource exploitation strategies.
- India must proactively engage in Arctic geopolitics to counterbalance China’s growing presence.
India’s Arctic Policy: Key Pillars
- Scientific Research and Technological Development
- Climate and Environmental Protection
- Economic and Resource Utilisation
- Connectivity and International Cooperation
- Governance and Institutional Capacity Building
- Human and Indigenous Community Engagement
Why India Must Adopt a Strategic Approach?
- Climate Change and Environmental Impact:
- The Arctic and Himalayas are interconnected through the cryosphere.
- Melting Arctic ice influences monsoons, sea level rise, and biodiversity.
- Arctic changes impact Indian agriculture, water security, and coastal populations.
India’s Historical Engagement in the Arctic
- 1920: India signed the Svalbard Treaty under British rule.
- 1981: Creation of the Department of Ocean Development (DOD) for Arctic research.
- 2006: Reorganised into the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
- 2007: India’s first scientific expedition to the Arctic.
- 2008: Establishment of Himadri Research Station in Svalbard, Norway.
- 2013: India granted Observer Status in the Arctic Council.
- 2014: Deployment of IndArc, India’s multi-sensor moored observatory.
- 2016: Establishment of an atmospheric laboratory at Gruvebadet.
- Scientific Research and Technological Advancements:
- Himadri Research Station enables polar research.
- The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) leads studies on glaciology, climate modeling, and biodiversity.
- Expanding India’s satellite-based Arctic monitoring systems enhances research capabilities.
- Economic and Trade Opportunities:
- The Northern Sea Route (NSR) can reduce India’s shipping distances to Europe by up to 40%.
- The Arctic’s energy resources present a diversification opportunity for India’s energy security.
- Bilateral energy agreements with Russia and Norway enhance resource access.
- Geopolitical and Strategic Considerations:
- The Arctic is a theatre of competition among Russia, the USA, China, and NATO.
- China’s Polar Silk Road initiative under BRI aims to expand influence, posing a strategic challenge to India.
- India’s policy focuses on multilateral engagement, bilateral diplomacy, and securing its Arctic interests.
Way Forward: Strengthening India’s Arctic Role
- Enhancing Scientific and Technological Capabilities:
- Expanding Arctic research programs and partnerships with Arctic nations.
- Strengthening satellite-based Arctic monitoring systems.
- Strengthening Economic and Trade Engagement:
- Encouraging Indian energy firms to engage in sustainable Arctic exploration.
- Expanding maritime and logistics infrastructure for Northern Sea Route (NSR) benefits.
- Geopolitical Balancing and Multilateral Cooperation:
- Maintaining an independent Arctic strategy while aligning with like-minded nations.
- Strengthening India’s role in Arctic governance platforms.
