Parliamentary Panel Recommends 'Polar Ambassador' for India's Arctic and Antarctic Engagement
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Shashi Tharoor, has recommended appointing a 'Polar Ambassador' to boost India's diplomatic, scientific, and strategic presence in polar regions. The report, tabled in Parliament, also calls for a long-term polar strategy and faster construction of the new Maitri research station.
Background
India has been active in polar research for decades, with the Antarctic Treaty (signed in 1983) and the Arctic Council (observer status since 2013). India operates research stations in Antarctica: Maitri and Bharati. The new Maitri station is planned to replace the aging one.
Key facts
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, recommended appointing a 'Polar Ambassador'.
The recommendation is part of the report titled 'India's Role and Presence in the Arctic and Antarctic Regions', tabled in Parliament on Thursday.
The committee also called for a long-term polar strategy and faster construction of a new Maitri research station.
The envoy would enhance India's diplomatic, scientific, and strategic presence in polar regions.
India has observer status in the Arctic Council and is a signatory to the Antarctic Treaty.
Prelims pointers
- Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs
- Shashi Tharoor (Chairman)
- Arctic Council (India observer since 2013)
- Antarctic Treaty (India signed in 1983)
- Maitri and Bharati research stations in Antarctica
- New Maitri station planned
Mains angles
- Discuss the strategic importance of polar regions for India and the role of a 'Polar Ambassador'.
- Critically examine India's scientific and diplomatic engagement in the Arctic and Antarctic.
- Evaluate the need for a long-term polar strategy in the context of climate change and geopolitical competition.