Syllabus: Distribution of key natural resources
Context: India-Russia committed to “regular bilateral consultations” on Arctic-related issues, welcomed progress in Northern Sea Route cooperation, and agreed to expand nuclear energy and space collaboration.
About the Arctic Region
- The Arctic is a fragile and crucial ecosystem covering Earth’s northernmost areas.
- It includes the Arctic Ocean and territories of Canada, Russia, Greenland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and the U.S. (Alaska).
- The region is warming at four times the global average, causing rapid environmental and geopolitical shifts.
- NASA reports Arctic ice is shrinking 12.2% per decade.
Current Framework for Arctic Governance
- Arctic Council (1996): Formed through the Ottawa Declaration, comprising eight nations, promoting environmental protection and scientific cooperation.
- UNCLOS: Governs maritime boundaries and resource rights but excludes climate change and indigenous concerns.
- Svalbard Treaty (1920): Grants Norway sovereignty over Svalbard while permitting resource access for signatories; limited in scope.
Significance of the Arctic Region
- Natural Resources: Holds 13% of global undiscovered oil and 30% of natural gas.
- Melting ice increases access, fueling global competition.
- New Navigational Routes: NSR and Northwest Passage offer alternatives to Suez and Panama.
- NSR cargo grew from 41,000 tonnes (2010) to 37.9 million tonnes (2024).
Strategic Importance for India
- Northern Sea Route: Supports India’s long-term goals of reducing freight costs and enhancing maritime trade.
- Energy Security: Arctic oil, gas, and rare earths can boost India’s strategic capabilities.
- Geopolitical Leverage: India, an Observer in the Arctic Council since 2013, advocates sustainable and equitable development.
India’s Engagement with the Arctic
- Signed the Svalbard Treaty, marking early involvement.
- Operates the Himadri research station (2008) in Svalbard.
- Indian studies examine Arctic ice loss impacts on monsoon and agriculture.
- Through NCPOR, India conducts research on climate, marine biodiversity, and glaciers.
- India’s Arctic Policy (2022) emphasises sustainable development.
- Arctic Circle India Forum (May 2025) may lead to appointing a Polar Ambassador.
Challenges and Concerns
- The Arctic’s fragile ecosystem demands caution in commercial activities.
- Global temperatures crossed 1.5°C in 2024, signalling deviation from Paris Agreement goals.
- Navigating Arctic waters requires advanced ice-breaking fleets; Budget 2025–26 allocates $3 billion for maritime development.
- Territorial disputes persist under UNCLOS, with claims by Russia, Canada, and Denmark; the U.S. cannot assert claims without ratifying UNCLOS.
- Russia strengthens claims through legal and military strategies, complicating Western interests.
India’s Strategic Dilemma
- Partnership with Russia: Supports NSR access and the Chennai–Vladivostok Corridor.
- Risk of indirectly supporting China’s Polar Silk Road, enhancing Beijing’s influence.
- Balancing Western partners is crucial to protect India’s Arctic interests.
- Collaboration with Japan and South Korea may counter deepening Sino-Russian ties.
Way Forward
- Refine India’s Arctic Policy with actionable goals and capacity building.
- Promote sustainable resource use and climate-resilient Arctic infrastructure.
- Strengthen research programs to monitor global climate impacts.
- Pursue multilateral cooperation with Arctic states and Observer nations.
- Partnerships with Russia, Japan, and South Korea can enhance India’s strategic role.