The Arctic is rapidly emerging as a critical frontier for climate research, with global warming accelerating the melting of ice in the region. As one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, India has significantly expanded its scientific footprint in the Arctic, focusing on understanding how Arctic ice melt affects the Indian monsoon, Himalayan glaciers, and long-term climate stability.

 

Through its National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), India has undertaken 15 successful Arctic expeditions and continues to enhance its engagement with the region. The research being conducted has profound implications for India’s climate resilience, monsoon variability, and global climate negotiations.

 

Scientific Studies in the Arctic: India’s Key Focus Areas

 

India’s Arctic research program is multidisciplinary and multi-institutional, involving collaborations with leading global research bodies. The key focus areas include:

 

1. Understanding Arctic Ice Melt and the Indian Monsoon

• Indian scientists are studying the teleconnections between Arctic climate changes and Indian monsoons.

• Atmospheric and oceanic measurements suggest that melting Arctic ice influences monsoon patterns, leading to disruptions in precipitation and Himalayan snowfall.

 

2. Deploying Advanced Oceanic Research Infrastructure

• India has placed a mooring system (IND-Arc) in the Kongsfjorden region to measure oceanic and atmospheric properties affected by ice melt.

• These observations help assess temperature shifts, ocean currents, and the extent of polar ice retreat.

 

3. International Collaboration for Climate Science

• Indian scientists have participated in scientific cruises in collaboration with the Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI) and the Korean Polar Research Institute (KOPRI).

• These studies analyze biophysical processes involved in Arctic Sea ice melting and their global ramifications.

 

4. Exploring the Arctic Permafrost for Microbial Research

• India conducted field studies in the Canadian High Arctic in 2023 and 2024 to understand the role of permafrost as a reservoir of microbes with potential human health implications.

• This research is crucial in predicting how melting permafrost could release ancient pathogens into the environment.

 

5. Expanding India’s Arctic Engagement

• Since December 2023, India has initiated regular winter expeditions in the Norwegian Arctic, enhancing year-round research capabilities.

• The Himadri Research Station has been operational for over 300 days continuously, demonstrating India’s long-term commitment to Arctic studies.

 

Impact on India’s Climate and Himalayan Cryosphere

 

The linkage between Arctic climate shifts and the Himalayas is a growing concern. Both regions hold large cryospheric reserves and are highly sensitive to global warming.

• Arctic temperature changes directly affect the Indian monsoon, influencing rainfall patterns, agriculture, and water security.

• Increased ice melt in the Arctic is likely to contribute to glacial retreat in the Himalayas, accelerating water scarcity issues in the long term.

• Shifts in Arctic weather patterns impact global ocean currents, which could further exacerbate climate extremes across South Asia.

 

India’s Policy and Financial Commitment to Arctic Research

 

Recognizing the strategic and scientific significance of the Arctic, India unveiled its Arctic Policy in March 2022, titled “India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development.” The policy focuses on six key pillars:

 

• Strengthening Scientific Research & Cooperation

• Climate & Environmental Protection

• Economic & Human Development

• Transportation & Connectivity

• Governance & International Cooperation

• Building National Capacity in the Arctic Region

 

The implementation of India’s Arctic policy is overseen by the Empowered Arctic Policy Group, which coordinates efforts across ministries.

 

Funding Commitment - Over the last five years, India has allocated ₹39 crores towards Arctic research, emphasizing climate monitoring, environmental studies, and scientific collaborations.

 

The Road Ahead: Strengthening India’s Arctic Leadership

 

India’s growing Arctic engagement reflects its commitment to climate resilience, global scientific leadership, and sustainable development. However, challenges remain in expanding research capabilities, strengthening international partnerships, and integrating Arctic findings into India’s climate policies.

 

To further enhance its Arctic presence, India must:

• Scale up Research Infrastructure – Expand observational networks and scientific collaborations.

• Leverage Arctic Studies for Climate Policy – Integrate Arctic findings into India’s climate adaptation strategies.

• Enhance Global Partnerships – Strengthen cooperation with Arctic Council nations and research institutions.

• Secure Long-Term Funding – Ensure consistent financial support for Arctic missions and studies.

 

With climate change reshaping the Arctic at an unprecedented pace, India’s sustained research efforts in the region will be pivotal for climate modeling, disaster preparedness, and long-term sustainability. The Arctic may be thousands of kilometers away, but its impact on India’s monsoon, agriculture, and water security is immediate and undeniable. Proactive policies and sustained scientific inquiry will ensure that India remains at the forefront of Arctic research and climate action in the coming decades.