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India's Growing Involvement in Arctic Shipping

  • 28 Aug 2023

Recently, it has been observed that Murmansk, known as the capital of the Arctic and the starting point of the Northern Sea Route (NSR), is seeing a surge in Indian participation in cargo traffic.

Key Points

  • India Cargo Traffic: India accounted for 35% of the eight million tonnes of cargo handled by the Murmansk port in the first seven months of 2023.
  • Northern Sea Route Explained: The NSR, a shorter shipping route between Europe and Asia-Pacific, traverses the Arctic Ocean.
  • Notably, it can cut distances by up to 50% compared to Suez or Panama routes.
  • Russia's Role in NSR Development: Russia, with its nuclear-powered icebreaker fleet, ensures safe navigation in the icebound Arctic.
  • Cargo traffic along the NSR is rising, driven by India's energy imports from Russia, geographical advantage, and transit route prospects.

Understanding the Northern Sea Route (NSR)

  • Definition of the NSR: The NSR is the quickest maritime path connecting Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, spanning 5,600 km and traversing four Arctic Ocean seas. It originates at the boundary of the Barents and Kara seas (Kara Strait) and terminates at the Bering Strait (Provideniya Bay).
  • Advantages of the NSR: The NSR presents the potential for cutting shipping distances by up to 50% compared to established routes via the Suez or Panama Canals.

India's Involvement in Arctic Affairs

  • Genesis of Engagement: India's association with the Arctic began in 1920 with the signing of the Svalbard Treaty, involving multiple nations including Norway, the US, and Denmark. Subsequently, India has diligently tracked developments in the Arctic region.
  • Arctic Research Initiative: India's Arctic research program, initiated in 2007, concentrated on studying climate change. Objectives encompassed investigating links between Arctic climate and the Indian monsoon, analyzing sea ice using satellite data, and assessing global warming implications.
  • Establishment of Himadri: In 2008, India set up the research station Himadri in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard.
  • Observer Status in the Arctic Council: India became an observer state of the Arctic Council in May 2013, standing alongside countries like China.
  • Scientific Advancements: India launched a multi-sensor moored observatory and an atmospheric laboratory in 2014 and 2016 respectively.
  • Arctic Expeditions: Thirteen successful expeditions to the Arctic were carried out until the previous year.

Arctic's Importance to India

  • Climate Sensitivity: The Arctic's vulnerability to climate change could impact India's water and economic security.
  • Abundant Resources: The region hosts untapped hydrocarbon reserves and valuable minerals, contributing to India's resource requirements.
  • Economic Progress: India's Arctic pursuits align with UN Sustainable Development Goals, fostering economic growth.
  • Historical Connection: Dating back to the Svalbard Treaty, India's historical engagement continues through ongoing scientific endeavors and participation in the Arctic Council.
  • Trade and Connectivity: India's sea-dependent trade could benefit from the Arctic's Northern Sea Route (NSR), potentially reducing transit times.
  • Global Influence and Environmental Responsibility: Engaging in Arctic affairs positions India as a global stakeholder, enabling contributions to climate change and resource management dialogues.