ANTARCTICA AT CROSSROADS: INDIA'S ROLE IN SHAPING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

The vast, icy wilderness of Antarctica, a region largely untouched by human civilization
and home to a myriad of unique life forms, has always been shrouded in mystery.
However, this isolation is swiftly diminishing. Tourism to the continent has skyrocketed,
with the number of visitors increasing from 8,000 in 1993 to over 105,000 in 2022. This
sharp rise has raised concerns about the impact on Antarctica's fragile ecosystem.
Consequently, the ongoing 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi,
Kerala is currently deliberating the future of tourism in this pristine environment.

The discussions at the ATCM mark a pivotal moment for Antarctica's future. India,
emerging as a significant power with an increasing interest in the continent, has a
unique chance to advocate for sustainable tourism practices. By doing so, India can
help ensure that the unspoiled beauty of Antarctica remains preserved and accessible
for future generations.

Why is Antarctica Becoming Increasingly Significant?

• Climate Change Implications: Antarctica is vital to Earth's climate system, and

the melting of its ice sheets significantly affects global sea levels and weather
patterns. Recent satellite images revealed that the Antarctic iceberg known as
A23a has been drifting beyond the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula.
• Resource Potential: Antarctica is believed to have substantial reserves of
valuable minerals, including rare earth elements, coal, and potentially untapped
oil and gas deposits. With the increasing global demand for resources and the
depletion of traditional sources, the prospect of responsible and sustainable
resource exploration in Antarctica is drawing attention.
• Scientific Research Opportunities: The unique and pristine environment of
Antarctica offers unmatched opportunities for scientific research in various
fields such as glaciology, astronomy, geology, and biology. Advances in
technology are enabling more sophisticated research methods, thereby
enhancing the scientific value of Antarctica. For example, the IceCube Neutrino
Observatory, located at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, illustrates the
continent's scientific potential.
• Rising Geopolitical Interests: As nations aim to establish their presence and
influence in strategically significant regions, Antarctica has become an area of
increasing geopolitical interest. Countries are striving for a stronger voice in the
governance and decision-making processes related to the Antarctic region,
driven by potential resource opportunities and a quest for global influence. The
USA operates three stations in Antarctica, and China opened its fifth station, the
Qinling Station, in February 2024.
• Environmental Monitoring and Conservation: Antarctica is a crucial indicator
of global environmental changes, and monitoring its ecosystems and wildlife

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 provides valuable insights into the planet's health. The Antarctic Peninsula is
among the fastest-warming regions on Earth, leading to significant changes in
penguin and krill populations.
• Tourism and Adventure: As adventure tourism grows, Antarctica's unique and
untouched landscapes have become an appealing destination for travelers
seeking extraordinary experiences. According to the International Association of
Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), a record 105,331 people visited Antarctica
during the 2022-23 season.

What is the Antarctic Treaty?

About: The Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 by 12 countries involved in Antarctic
research during the International Geophysical Year (1957-58). It currently includes 57
member nations, with India joining in 1983.

Key Provisions:

• Peaceful Use: Antarctica is reserved exclusively for peaceful purposes (Article I).

• Scientific Collaboration: The Treaty encourages freedom of scientific

investigation and cooperation (Article II).

• Information Sharing: Scientific observations and results must be exchanged

and made easily accessible (Article III).

Territorial Claims:

• Seven signatory countries (Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand,

Norway, and the UK) have overlapping territorial claims, which other countries
do not recognize.

• The US and Russia maintain a "basis of claim" without asserting it.

• Article IV preserves the status quo by:

o Preventing any activities from being used to support or deny territorial

claims.

o Prohibiting new or expanded territorial claims while the Treaty is in effect.

Inspection Regime:

• To ensure compliance with the Treaty, all areas of Antarctica, including stations
and installations, are subject to inspection by any Party at any time (Article VII).

What is the Significance of Exploring Antarctica for India?

• Advancing India's Space Program: Antarctica's unique location and conditions

provide an ideal environment for testing India's space technologies, including landers,

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 rockets, and remote sensing systems. Conducting eco-friendly experiments in the
harsh Antarctic conditions could help India refine its space technologies for future
missions.
• Securing Energy and Mineral Resources: As the third-largest energy consumer
globally, India's growing energy demands and need for critical minerals could be
addressed by responsible and sustainable resource exploration in Antarctica, subject
to the regulations of the Antarctic Treaty System.
• Advancing Climate Change Research and Adaptation: Given India's geographical
vulnerability to climate change impacts—from the Himalayas in the north to the
surrounding seas in the south—it is crucial for India to understand the changes in
Antarctica's climate systems.
• Strengthening India's Maritime Capabilities: India's participation in Antarctic
logistics and operations can enhance its maritime capabilities, including navigation in
icy waters, shipbuilding for polar environments, and developing advanced icebreaker
vessels. This would support India's strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region and
beyond.
• Exploring Bioprospecting Opportunities: Antarctica's unique ecosystems may yield
novel microorganisms, enzymes, and bioactive compounds with applications in
pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and agriculture. Indian researchers could explore
bioprospecting opportunities in Antarctica, contributing to the country's bioeconomy.

How can India Enhance its Role and Contributions in Antarctica?

• Developing Advanced Autonomous Systems for Polar Exploration: India has

the potential to lead in creating advanced autonomous systems utilizing robotics
and artificial intelligence, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and
autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), specifically designed for polar
exploration. These systems could be employed for mapping, surveying, and
monitoring purposes by various countries, thereby enhancing India's scientific
diplomacy.
• Collaboration on Rare Earth Element (REE) Exploration: With the increasing
demand for rare earth elements in high-tech industries, India could partner with
other nations to conduct geological surveys and assessments of potential REE
deposits in Antarctica. This collaboration could establish India as a key player in
future responsible and sustainable REE exploration efforts, adhering to the
regulations of the Antarctic Treaty System.
• Investment in Sustainable Infrastructure Development: India could invest in
developing sustainable infrastructure in Antarctica, such as renewable energy
systems, waste management facilities, and eco-friendly transportation
solutions. This investment would not only support India's research and logistical
operations but also demonstrate its commitment to reducing environmental
impacts in the region. Currently, India operates two active research stations in
Antarctica: Maitri and Bharati. In April 2024, the Department of Posts opened a
second branch of the post office at the Bharati research station, marking a
significant development after nearly four decades.

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 • Promoting Responsible and Sustainable Antarctic Tourism: India could work
with international partners to develop guidelines and best practices for
responsible and sustainable tourism in Antarctica. This initiative could include
training Indian tour operators and guides on minimizing environmental impacts,
complying with strict regulations, and offering educational experiences that
highlight the region's unique ecosystems and the importance of conservation. At
the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, India advocated for a proposal to
introduce a regulatory framework governing tourism on the continent.

Analysis: India's potential to enhance its role and contributions in Antarctica is

multifaceted. By developing advanced autonomous systems, India can significantly
improve polar exploration capabilities, which could foster international cooperation and
strengthen its scientific standing. Collaborating on rare earth element exploration aligns
with India's strategic interests in securing critical resources and can position it as a
leader in sustainable resource management.

Investing in sustainable infrastructure development not only supports India's

operational needs but also showcases its commitment to environmental stewardship.
The expansion of logistical support, such as opening a new post office at Bharati
research station, underscores India's growing presence and operational capabilities in
Antarctica.

Promoting responsible and sustainable tourism is crucial as visitor numbers continue

to rise. By leading efforts to establish a regulatory framework for tourism, India can play
a pivotal role in preserving Antarctica's pristine environment while facilitating
educational and responsible tourism practices.

Overall, India's strategic initiatives in Antarctica reflect a balance of scientific

advancement, resource management, environmental protection, and international
collaboration, positioning it as a key player in the future of Antarctic exploration and
conservation.