India’s Arctic Policy: A Strategic Framework for Sustainable Development

Introduction

India's Arctic policy, titled 'India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development', was released in March 2022. This policy symbolizes India's rising global stature and its recognition of the Arctic's strategic, economic, and environmental significance. It outlines India's vision and strategy for engaging with the Arctic region.

Economic Activities in the Arctic

The Arctic, known for its extreme environment, is experiencing a surge in economic activities including oil and gas production, mining, shipping, fishing, aquaculture, and tourism. These activities contribute to regional development through infrastructure investments, tax revenues, and job creation, highlighting the potential for significant progress.

India's Strategic Interests in the Arctic

India's strategic interests in the Arctic are notable, as evidenced by its Observer status in the Arctic Council. This inter-governmental forum addresses challenges faced by Arctic governments and indigenous peoples. India's policy emphasizes international cooperation, scientific research, and sustainable development.

Objectives of India's Arctic Policy

• Strengthening national capabilities in science, exploration, and environmental protection.
• Enhancing institutional capacities across government, academia, research, and business sectors.
• Fostering inter-ministerial coordination to advance India's interests.
• Improving understanding of climate change impacts on India.
• Contributing to policymaking regarding implications of Arctic ice melting.
• Studying linkages between polar regions and the Himalayas.
• Deepening cooperation with Arctic countries.

Rationale Behind the Policy

The policy acknowledges the Arctic as a global commons and emphasizes the strategic implications for global trade and energy security. It explores the potential for sustainable resource extraction.

Relevance of the Arctic

• (A) Scientific Research, Climate Change, and Environment: Understanding how changes in the Arctic affect global weather, climate systems, and ecosystems, including the impact on India's monsoons. Studying the Arctic can provide insights into processes influencing the Himalayas.
• (B) Economic and Human Resources: Addressing India's energy security needs and strategic mineral shortages while promoting a sustainable approach to Arctic resource utilization.
• (C) Geopolitical and Strategic Significance: Navigating geopolitical competition, particularly concerning the roles of China, the United States, and Russia, while addressing boundary disputes among Arctic states.

Conclusion

India's Arctic policy reflects its commitment to scientific research, environmental protection, and sustainable development. It acknowledges the importance of international cooperation in tackling the challenges and harnessing the opportunities presented by the Arctic's changing environment. India's involvement in the Arctic could yield economic benefits and reinforce international collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main objective of India's Arctic policy?
Answer: The main objective of India's Arctic policy is to enhance sustainable development through international cooperation, scientific research, and environmental protection in the Arctic region.

Q2. Why is the Arctic region important for India?
Answer: The Arctic is crucial for India due to its potential for economic activities, strategic mineral resources, and its influence on global climate and weather patterns, including India's monsoons.

Q3. How does India engage with Arctic countries?
Answer: India engages with Arctic countries primarily through the Arctic Council, focusing on collaborative scientific research, environmental sustainability, and fostering inter-ministerial coordination to address common interests.

Q4. What are the economic activities taking place in the Arctic?
Answer: Economic activities in the Arctic include oil and gas production, mining, shipping, fishing, aquaculture, and tourism, which contribute to regional development and job creation.

Q5. How does India's policy address climate change?
Answer: India's Arctic policy aims to improve understanding of climate change impacts on India by studying the Arctic's transformations and their effects on global climate systems, especially regarding the Himalayas.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the title of India's Arctic policy?
A) India's Arctic: A Vision for the Future
B) India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development
C) India's Role in Arctic Affairs
D) Sustainable Development in the Arctic
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is India's status in the Arctic Council?
A) Full member
B) Observer
C) No involvement
D) Associate member
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which of the following is a key objective of India's Arctic policy?
A) Increasing military presence in the Arctic
B) Strengthening national capabilities in science
C) Limiting economic activities in the Arctic
D) Reducing international cooperation
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is one of the reasons for India's interest in the Arctic region?
A) Geopolitical competition
B) Cultural exchange
C) Historical ties
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: A