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27-Oct-2023-Special-Article
November 15, 2023 @ 7:30 am - 11:30 pm
BREAKING THE ICE: HOW INDIA CAN HELP SAVE THE ARCTIC
India, emerging as a leader in the Global South, has a pivotal role in shaping global climate policies, particularly in the Arctic. The rapid warming of the Arctic, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and developmental pressures, demands urgent attention. India’s consensus-building prowess, showcased at the G20 Summit, presents a unique opportunity to address the critical issues affecting the Arctic.
Growing Challenges in the Arctic:
Accelerated Warming:
The Arctic experiences a warming rate four times faster than the global average.
Unprecedented loss of sea ice and permafrost thaw are direct outcomes.
Carbon Release Threat:
Thawing permafrost risks releasing vast carbon stores into the atmosphere.
Potential trigger for catastrophic and irreversible climate tipping points.
Global South Impact:
Intricate correlation found between Arctic sea-ice melting and extreme Indian summer monsoon events.
80% of South Asia’s crucial rainfall during the monsoon.
Reasons for Worsening Impact:
Rapid Development:
Russia’s intensive commercialization and expansion along the Northern Sea Route contribute to environmental degradation.
Geopolitical Interests:
Other Arctic nations planning oil and gas projects amid growing geopolitical tensions.
Governance Failures:
Arctic Council, the primary governance mechanism, suspended due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Lack of accountability and monitoring exacerbates the challenges.
Non-representation of Global South:
Arctic Council lacks representation from the Global South, though India and others have observer status.
Arctic Council Overview:
Establishment:
- Formally established in 1996 through The Ottawa Declaration.
- An intergovernmental forum fostering cooperation among Arctic States.
Members and Observers:
- Comprises eight member countries, including Canada, Russia, the United States, and others.
- Observer status granted to non-Arctic states, including India and China.
Focus and Evolution:
- Originally focused on environmental concerns and indigenous issues.
- Evolved to regulate shipping lanes, hydrocarbon prospecting, and marine resource exploitation.
India’s Role:
Consensus Building:
- India’s demonstrated ability to balance Global North and South interests, as seen at the G20 Summit.
- Essential for generating unanimity required to reform Arctic governance and protect the climate.
Voice for Global South:
- Active involvement in the Arctic Council as a member enables India to advocate against further exploitation.
- Critical to safeguarding global climate and ecosystems, including the Arctic.
Conclusion:
India’s growing influence in global forums positions it as a key player in addressing the challenges faced by the Arctic. Leveraging its consensus-building skills, India can advocate for reforms in Arctic governance, ensuring climate protection takes precedence. As India progresses post-G20, its commitment to pushing these reforms can contribute significantly to safeguarding vital global ecosystems, particularly the Arctic, from the impacts of climate change.
Mains Question:
- Discuss India’s role in addressing the challenges faced by the Arctic due to climate change. Examine the impact of the rapid warming of the Arctic on the Global South, with a specific focus on India. Highlight the key reasons for the worsening impact and evaluate the significance of India’s participation in the Arctic Council. (150 Words) 10M