India's First Winter Scientific Arctic Expedition Launched

• 20 Dec 2023

Honourable Union Minister flagged off India's inaugural winter scientific expedition to the Arctic from the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) headquarters in New Delhi on December 18, 2023.

• The expedition aims to conduct unique scientific observations during the polar nights of November to March, providing insights into climate change, space weather, sea-ice and ocean circulation dynamics, and ecosystem adaptations.

Key Points

• Winter Operations Expansion after Himadri Review: Since 2008, India has maintained the Himadri research base in the Arctic, primarily hosting scientists during the summer.
• Encouragement for Scientific Prowess Expansion: Union Minister highlighted the strategic importance of the Arctic and urged Indian scientists to play a vital role in addressing global challenges. He interacted with members of the Arctic expedition departing for Himadri on December 19, 2023, expressing wishes for a safe and productive stay.
• The first batch includes researchers from NCPOR, IIT Mandi, IITM Pune, and Raman Research Institute Bengaluru.
• India among Nations with Extended Arctic Operations: With the launch of winter expeditions, India joins select nations with extended in-time operations in the Arctic.
• Research areas include atmospheric, biological, marine, and space sciences, environmental chemistry, cryosphere studies, terrestrial ecosystems, and astrophysics.
• NCPOR received 41 proposals for winter Arctic research this year, shortlisting 15 after a thorough peer review and expert selection committee process.