Unlike Antarctica which is deemed 'common good' & thus free of human greed, Arctic does competition among its neighbours to gain geopolitical & economic benefit by exploiting the region.
Main Body
India's Interest: 1. Scientific research - changes in Arctic impart monsoon & agriculture. - Himalayan research station at Svaloard. 2. Energy exploration - Arctic holds promise for source classification, strengthen energy security for India. 3. Trade route - NSR axes could reduce costs & dependence on chokepoints (eg. Malacia). 4. Potential joint projects - with Russia, USA could lead to soft power enhancement technology transfer. Strategies to recalibrate India's Arctic Engagement: 1. Under National Centre for Polar & Ocean Research. 2. Build strategic partnerships with Russia, Norway, Canada for energy density. 3. Strengthen participation in Arctic Council (Observed). 4. Develop maritime capabilities to take advantage of NSR. 5. Leverage AI, Quantum technology & innovation along with remote survey to gather data & analyse it. India's Arctic Policy (2022) should serve as springboard for India to pivot from passive observer to active participant in the Arctic region.
Conclusion
Unlike Antarctica which is deemed 'common good' & thus free of human greed, Arctic does competition among its neighbours to gain geopolitical & economic benefit by exploiting the region. Factors behind growing salience of the Arctic: 1. Energy resource - Arctic contains 30% unexplored gas reserves & 13% oil. In an increasingly energy deficit world, these figures cause raw to resources. 2. Climatic change - rising temperatures have opened Northern sea route cutting trade time. eg. China proposes a Polar Silk Route in the region. 3. Military & geostrategic importance - Russia, USA & China have increased military & defence posture in the region eg. bases, surveillance. 4. Great Power Politics - China's declaration of 'Near Arctic State', competing claims of Russia & USA in the region. 5. Shifting alliances - Nordic Countries shift towards NATO, further complicates the region. India's Arctic Policy (2022) should serve as springboard for India to pivot from passive observer to active participant in the Arctic region.
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DISHA DHANKHAR
India and its Neighborhood - Relations
Arctic Geopolitics
Arctic Competition
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