India must rethink its Arctic Outlook

You must be logged in to get greater insights.

Context

The strategic and military landscape of the Arctic is rapidly transforming due to intensified geopolitical competition among major powers. As climate change opens new maritime routes like the Northern Sea Route (NSR), countries such as Russia, China, and the U.S. are consolidating their presence, raising concerns over India's limited strategic engagement despite its 2022 Arctic Policy.

Strategic Shift in Arctic Geopolitics

Geopolitical Militarisation: Arctic states are reopening military bases, deploying submarines, and reinforcing territorial claims, signaling a move away from cooperative frameworks.
NSR & Global Trade Impact: The melting ice is making the Northern Sea Route navigable, potentially redirecting global maritime traffic away from traditional Indian Ocean routes.
Great Power Contestation: China’s "Polar Silk Road" and increasing U.S. interest in Greenland underline the Arctic’s shift into a core zone of strategic rivalry.

India’s Current Arctic Posture

2022 Arctic Policy Limitations: India's policy emphasizes climate science and sustainability but underplays evolving strategic dynamics and emerging security dimensions.
Scientific Diplomacy Constraints: Existing Indian initiatives (e.g., Svalbard research station, observer status in Arctic Council) are rooted in a benign multilateral order now eroding.
Strategic Detachment: India remains largely disengaged from Arctic governance forums and geopolitical coalitions, risking marginalisation in new regulatory regimes.

Recommendations for Recalibrated Arctic Strategy

Institutional Strengthening: Establish dedicated Arctic desks in MEA and MOD; enable strategic inter-agency consultations and think tank collaborations.
Dual-Use Partnerships: Collaborate with Arctic democracies on polar logistics, satellite monitoring, and maritime domain awareness without escalating tensions.
Governance Participation: Proactively engage in emerging Arctic governance platforms concerning shipping norms, digital infrastructure, and blue economy rules.

Practice Question

Q. With the increasing strategic importance of the Arctic, critically evaluate India's current Arctic policy. Suggest reforms that balance climate diplomacy with emerging geopolitical realities.

Minerals gamble: On the U.S.-Ukraine mineral deal

International Relations Miscellaneous

As states want more, 16th FC will have to walk a tightrope on equity and efficiency

Economy Trade Concepts

State Visit of President of Angola to India

International Relations Bilateral relations

Restore FMR, stop border fencing: UNC

Polity & Governance Governance

India’s Sporting Industry

Economy Economic Sectors

Agrivoltaics

Ecology and Environment Environmental Governance