Research and resources are two pillars of India’s Arctic policy. Comment (250 words).
India’s Arctic Policy, released in March 2022, fulfills a long standing need for clear articulation on a rapidly transforming Arctic, whose rate of warming is 3 times faster than the rest of the world. The relevance of Arctic for India ranges from scientific research, climate change and environment; economic & human resources to geopolitical and strategic reasons.
Six Central Pillars of India’s Arctic Policy
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Science and research.
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Environmental protection.
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Economic and human development.
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Transportation and connectivity.
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Governance and international cooperation.
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National capacity building.
Relevance of Arctic for India
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The Arctic region is significant due to the shipping routes that run through it.
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According to an analysis published by the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, the adverse effects of the Arctic are not just impacting the availability of mineral and hydrocarbon resources, but also transforming global shipping routes.
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The region holds immense geopolitical importance as the Arctic is projected to be ice-free by 2050 and world powers making a beeline to exploit the region rich in natural resources.
India''s Arctic policy aims the following
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Institutional and human resource capacities will be strengthened within Government and academic, research and business institutions.
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Inter-ministerial coordination in pursuit of India''s interests in the Arctic.
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Enhancing understanding of the impact of climate change in the Arctic on India''s climate, economic, and energy security.
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Contributing better analysis, prediction, and coordinated policymaking on the implications of ice melting in the Arctic on India''s economic, military and strategic interests related to global shipping routes, energy security, and exploitation of mineral wealth.
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Studying linkages between polar regions and the Himalayas.
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Deepen cooperation between India and countries of the Arctic region under various Arctic forums, drawing expertise from scientific and traditional knowledge.
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Increase India’s participation in the Arctic Council and improve understanding of the complex governance structures in the Arctic, relevant international laws, and geopolitics of the region.
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India''s Arctic policy would play an essential role in preparing the country for a future where humankind''s biggest challenges, such as climate change, can be addressed through collective will and effort.
The Policy is also likely to raise awareness about the Arctic within India and vice-versa through conduct of programmes, seminars and events in India and in the Arctic. However, India must also officially appoint an ‘Arctic ambassador/representative’ who will represent and voice India’s perspectives on Arctic affairs. Constituting a dedicated expert committee to plan, monitor, steer, implement and review India’s Arctic policy may help streamline the country’s approach in a better manner.
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