Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Arctic region, traditionally considered remote and inaccessible, is rapidly gaining prominence due to climate change and the resultant melting of sea ice. This has opened up new possibilities for resource extraction and maritime routes, attracting the attention of nations beyond the Arctic Council members. India, despite being geographically distant, has developed a keen interest in the Arctic region, driven by scientific curiosity, economic opportunities, and strategic considerations. India officially released its Arctic Policy in March 2022, formalizing its engagement with the region and highlighting its commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation in the Arctic.
Resource Potential of the Arctic
The Arctic is estimated to hold approximately 13% of the world’s undiscovered oil and 30% of undiscovered natural gas reserves. Key resources include:
- Oil and Gas: Significant reserves are located in the Russian Arctic, Alaskan North Slope, and Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
- Minerals: Deposits of iron ore, nickel, copper, diamonds, and rare earth minerals are present in various Arctic regions. Greenland, for example, holds substantial deposits of rare earth elements crucial for modern technology.
- Fisheries: The receding ice cover is opening up new fishing grounds in the Arctic Ocean, potentially impacting global fisheries management.
While direct resource extraction by India is currently limited, access to these resources through partnerships and investments is a key driver of its interest.
Strategic Importance of the Arctic
The opening of Arctic sea routes, particularly the Northern Sea Route (NSR) along Russia’s northern coast, offers a shorter shipping distance between Asia and Europe compared to traditional routes via the Suez Canal. This has significant implications for global trade and maritime security:
- Reduced Shipping Costs: The NSR can reduce shipping distances by 40-60%, leading to substantial cost savings.
- Energy Security: Access to Arctic energy resources can enhance India’s energy security.
- Geopolitical Influence: Increased engagement in the Arctic allows India to project its influence in a strategically important region.
India’s growing trade with Russia and other Eurasian countries further incentivizes its interest in the NSR.
Climate Change Link and Scientific Research
Changes in the Arctic have far-reaching consequences for the global climate system. The Arctic is warming at a rate almost four times faster than the global average, leading to:
- Sea Level Rise: Melting glaciers and ice sheets contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities worldwide, including India.
- Changes in Weather Patterns: Arctic warming can disrupt atmospheric circulation patterns, leading to extreme weather events in other parts of the world.
- Impact on Monsoon: Some studies suggest a link between Arctic warming and changes in the Indian monsoon.
India actively conducts scientific research in the Arctic to understand these climate change impacts and develop adaptation strategies. Research stations like Himadri in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, Norway, are crucial for this purpose.
India’s Arctic Policy
India’s Arctic Policy, released in March 2022, outlines the country’s vision for its engagement in the Arctic region. Key pillars of the policy include:
- Scientific Research: Expanding and intensifying scientific research on the Arctic.
- Environmental Protection: Promoting sustainable development and environmental protection in the Arctic.
- International Cooperation: Strengthening cooperation with Arctic states and organizations.
- Economic Opportunities: Exploring opportunities for responsible resource utilization and shipping.
India is also an observer state in the Arctic Council, actively participating in its working groups and initiatives.
Conclusion
India’s growing interest in the Arctic region is driven by a confluence of factors – resource potential, strategic considerations, and the impacts of climate change. While India’s direct involvement in resource extraction may be limited in the short term, its scientific research, commitment to environmental protection, and engagement with Arctic nations are crucial for ensuring a sustainable and cooperative future in the region. Continued investment in Arctic research and a proactive approach to international collaboration will be essential for India to effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly changing Arctic.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.