On Tuesday, Union Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju, inaugurated the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi. During the event, he highlighted the significance of conserving and protecting Antarctica, describing it as both a beautiful and fragile continent.
The primary focus of the meeting is climate change, and Rijiju highlighted the significance of the event for Bharat and the global community.
Rijiju mentioned that the ATCM will involve critical discussions on various topics, including climate change, scientific research, and the regulation of activities in Antarctica. He announced Bharat’s plans to establish a new research station and enhance regulated tourism on the continent, stressing the need for careful conservation efforts.
I am glad to lead Indian delegation at the Opening Plenary Meeting of 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting and The 26th meeting of Committee for Environmental Protection at Kochi, Kerala in India. pic.twitter.com/AQbkIxzq1F
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 21, 2024
Bharat’s Role and Responsibilities
Bharat has been a consultative party to the Antarctic Treaty since 1983, giving it a significant role in the governance and protection of Antarctica. The nation can propose and vote on decisions regarding scientific exploration, environmental protection, and logistical cooperation.
In addition, Bharat has the right to establish research stations and enforce environmental regulations.
The Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Dr. M Ravichandran, pointed out that the ATCM has grown in importance over the years, evolving into a forum for both scientific and geopolitical discussions.
Antarctica holds invaluable clues to our planet's past and future climate, making our collaborative efforts in its preservation all the more critical. India would advocate for responsible and regulated tourism. #Antarctica #AntarcticTreaty #ATCM pic.twitter.com/CD2zIOzFR9
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) May 21, 2024
Dr. Thamban Meloth from the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research highlighted Bharat’s long-standing involvement in Antarctic research and the international recognition it has earned.
Focus on Tourism Regulation
One of the key topics at the 46th ATCM and 26th Meeting of the Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP) is the regulation of tourism in Antarctica.
With the number of tourists visiting the continent increasing significantly, it has become crucial to develop comprehensive regulations to ensure sustainable and responsible exploration. Bharat will play a pivotal role in facilitating these discussions.
International Collaboration
The meetings in Kochi are organized by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCOPR) in Goa and the Antarctic Treaty Secretariat. They bring together 350 delegates from 40 countries to discuss issues related to the science, policy, governance, management, preservation, and protection of Antarctica.
Bharat has a history of active involvement in Antarctic research and international cooperation. It hosted the 10th SCAR (Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research) conference in 2022 and the 30th ATCM in New Delhi in 2007.
Bharat has also collaborated with Norway and the UK on climate studies and Antarctic ice research.
Bharat is also set to discuss the possible induction of Canada and Belarus as consultative parties to the Antarctic Treaty System. This aligns with Bharat’s broader objectives of promoting scientific research and international cooperation in Antarctica. Both Canada and Belarus have been signatories to the Antarctic Treaty System since 1988 and 2006, respectively.
The ATCM in Kochi underscores Bharat’s commitment to the Antarctic Treaty System and its role in global efforts to protect and preserve Antarctica.
As the nation prepares to enhance its scientific and conservation activities on the continent, the meeting is a crucial step towards ensuring the sustainable and responsible use of Antarctica’s unique and pristine environment.
Comments