India’s Arctic Policy, 2022

India's Arctic Policy, released in 2022, sets out India's approach to scientific, environmental, economic and diplomatic engagement with the Arctic. Titled India's Arctic Policy: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development, it organises this engagement around six pillars while emphasising sustainability and cooperation.

Knowledge, climate and development pillars

• Science and Research seeks to strengthen Indian Arctic research, observation systems, data access and international scientific collaboration.
• Climate and Environmental Protection focuses on understanding Arctic climate change and protecting the region's fragile environment and biodiversity.
• Economic and Human Development supports responsible economic engagement while respecting sustainability and the interests of local and indigenous communities.

Connectivity, cooperation and capacity pillars

• Transportation and Connectivity examines emerging Arctic shipping routes and promotes safe, sustainable maritime and digital connectivity.
• Governance and International Cooperation strengthens India's participation in the Arctic Council and other international mechanisms consistent with international law.
• National Capacity Building develops trained personnel, institutions, technologies and public awareness needed for sustained Arctic engagement.

Implementation framework

The Ministry of Earth Sciences is the nodal ministry for implementation. An inter-ministerial Empowered Arctic Policy Group coordinates action plans among relevant ministries, institutions and stakeholders.