India’s Expedition to the Antarctic Realm

Context 

The frigid expanse of Antarctica, unspoiled by human civilization and brimming with diverse living forms, has long elicited mystery. This remoteness, however, is quickly changing. Tourism to the continent has skyrocketed, with tourist numbers increasing from 8,000 in 1993 to more than 1,05,000 in 2022.

This spike has raised worries about the continent’s fragile environment, causing the present 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi, Kerala, to discuss the future of tourism in this pristine wilderness.

Increasing Significance of Antarctica

• Impacts of Climate Change – Antarctica is an important part of Earth’s climate system, and the melting of its ice sheets has far-reaching effects for global sea levels and weather patterns. Recent satellite images revealed that the Antarctic iceberg known as A23a was drifting beyond the northern point of the Antarctic Peninsula. 
• Resource Potential – Antarctica is thought to have huge amounts of valuable minerals such as rare earth elements, coal, and potentially undiscovered oil and gas resources. With rising global demand for resources and the depletion of conventional sources, the prospect of responsible and sustainable resource development in Antarctica has gained traction. 
• Scientific Research Opportunities – Antarctica’s unique and pristine environment provides unprecedented opportunity for scientific research in a variety of fields, including glaciology, astronomy, geology, and biology. 
• Rising Geopolitical Interests – As countries attempt to establish their presence and influence in strategically crucial locations, Antarctica has become a hotbed of geopolitical intrigue. 
• Environmental Monitoring and Conservation – Antarctica serves as a critical indicator of global environmental changes, and monitoring its ecosystems and wildlife provides valuable insights into the health of the planet. 
• Tourism and Adventure – As adventure tourism grows, Antarctica’s distinctive and pristine landscapes have become a popular destination for people seeking unusual experiences. According to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), a record 105,331 persons visited Antarctica during the 2022-23 season.

Significance of Exploring Antarctica for India

• Advancing India’s Space Program – Antarctica’s unusual position and climate make it an excellent testing ground for India’s space technology, including landers, rockets, and remote sensing devices. 
• Securing Energy and Mineral Resources – With India’s rising energy demands (the world’s third-largest consumer of energy) and a need for critical minerals, Antarctica’s potential for responsible and sustainable resource exploration, subject to Antarctic Treaty System regulations, could help address the country’s long-term resource security concerns.
• Climate Change Research Purposes and Adaptation – India’s geographical location (Cap of Himalayas to the north and Sandal of Seas to the south) makes it critical to study changes in Antarctic climatic systems.
• Strengthening India’s Maritime Capabilities – India’s involvement in Antarctic logistics and operations could provide valuable opportunities to enhance its maritime capabilities, including navigation in icy waters, ship-building for polar environments, and developing advanced icebreaker vessels.

How can India enhance its role and contribution in Antarctica?

• Developed advanced Tech for Polar Expedition – India has the potential to be a leader in the development of advanced autonomous systems based on robotics and artificial intelligence, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and underwater vehicles (AUVs) tailored particularly for polar research. 
• Collaborate on REE Exploration – With the increasing need for rare earth elements in high-tech sectors, India may work with other countries to perform geological surveys and evaluations of probable REE resources in Antarctica. 
• Investing in Sustainable Infrastructure Development – India might invest in creating sustainable infrastructure in Antarctica, such as renewable energy systems, waste management facilities, and environmentally friendly transit options.
• Promoting Sustainable Antarctic Tourism – India might work with international partners to create rules and best practices for ethical and sustainable Antarctic tourism.

Way Forward

As India navigates the delicate balance between exploration and conservation in Antarctica, a strategic approach is essential. Prioritizing sustainable tourism, investing in eco-friendly infrastructure, and fostering international collaboration for environmental protection must be the cornerstones of India’s Antarctic policy. Advancing scientific research while safeguarding the continent’s pristine nature will not only enhance India’s role in global environmental stewardship but also contribute to a deeper understanding of climate change impacts, ensuring that Antarctica remains an untouched frontier for future generations.

SOURCE: The Hindu

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