Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh
India has initiated its inaugural winter expedition to the Arctic, marking a significant achievement in the country's polar research endeavours.
The expedition was officially inaugurated at Prithvi Bhavan in New Delhi, with Union Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju, expressing optimism for the pioneering mission.
A team of four scientists from the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) will undertake the winter journey, focusing on conducting atmospheric observations during polar nights, studying auroral changes, and monitoring variations in sea ice.
The expedition aims to delve into the Arctic's substantial impact on global climate, sea levels, and biodiversity, offering valuable insights into the intricate interactions between the Arctic climate and the Indian monsoon system.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju commended the efforts of Dr Thamban Meloth and the NCPOR team, recognising their crucial role in advancing India's capabilities in polar research.
The Himadri research station in Svalbard, Norway, will function as the expedition's base, enabling year-round observations and enhancing India's research efficiency in the region.
The expedition aligns with India's Arctic Policy, emphasizing scientific cooperation, environmental protection, and sustainable development amidst the rapidly evolving Arctic landscape.
Scientists aim to unravel polar mysteries by examining atmospheric conditions, auroral phenomena, and sea ice dynamics, contributing to a broader comprehension of global warming effects.
Beyond expanding scientific boundaries, the winter expedition underscores India's commitment to cultivating international collaboration in understanding the intricacies of our planet's climate dynamics.
The success of this expedition is expected to set the stage for sustained Indian presence and research in the Arctic, mirroring the nation's established operations in the Antarctic.