India in the Arctic: Exploring strategic opportunities

Abstract

The Arctic region has recently gained significance due to the melting of ice, climate change, global warming, and various environmental vulnerabilities. Nonetheless, the region is experiencing significant attention from various stakeholders. Due to the presence of two major powers, namely the USA and Russia, the region is increasingly positioning itself to play a major role in international affairs, thereby contributing to a redefinition of the global perspective on the Arctic region. Recent studies indicate that the Arctic region could face ice-free summers by the 2050s, potentially unlocking a range of economic avenues, including the establishment of new shipping and transportation routes, as well as opportunities for the exploration of diverse resources such as minerals, oil, and gas. Given the heightened significance of the region, all states, particularly those in the Arctic, are formulating their policies, plans, and strategies for engagement in the region. India has launched its official Arctic policy and aims to extend its participation in the region. Therefore, the paper aims to examine the strategic interests of India in the Arctic. Therefore, the study conducts an in-depth analysis of various government reports, expert interviews, and research articles to provide a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical dimensions of the region.