Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh on 9 October 2026 addressed the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik, Iceland, reaffirming India's science-driven engagement with the Arctic as an Observer State. Speaking at the session titled 'Arctic and Climate Change: Perspectives from Observer States', Singh underscored that while India is geographically distant from the Arctic, it remains deeply scientifically connected to the region.

The Monsoon Connection

Singh offered a direct explanation of why Arctic developments matter to a country thousands of kilometres away. "The Indian monsoon is shaped by a complex interaction of oceans, atmosphere, land, snow, and ice. Scientists are examining how changes in the Arctic may interact with the atmospheric circulation across Eurasia and influence our monsoons," he said.

He acknowledged the limits of current knowledge while stressing the urgency of research. "We do not yet have all the answers, but for India, understanding these connections matters. The monsoon has a direct bearing on our agriculture, our water resources, energy, and the livelihoods of millions of people," he added. The statement positions Arctic science not as an abstract geopolitical exercise but as a matter of direct domestic consequence for hundreds of millions of Indians dependent on a reliable monsoon.

India's Arctic Anchors: Himadri Station and Arctic Policy

Singh pointed to India's Himadri research station in Svalbard as the operational cornerstone of its Arctic engagement, alongside the country's formal Arctic Policy. India has held Observer State status at the Arctic Council since 2013, and Himadri has been the primary platform for its polar research activities. Singh reaffirmed India's three-pronged priorities: advancing scientific research, fostering sustainable development, and strengthening international cooperation.

Shipping Routes and International Legal Framework

On the emergence of new Arctic shipping routes as sea ice retreats, Singh signalled a cautious and rules-based approach. "India attaches great importance to the established international legal framework applicable to the Arctic, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as to the work of the Arctic Council," he said. He further acknowledged the primacy of Arctic states and indigenous peoples in shaping the region's future, a notable diplomatic signal from a major Observer State.

Proposed Trilateral Scientific Cooperation

In a concrete forward-looking proposal, Singh called for closer scientific collaboration among India, Japan, and South Korea — three major non-Arctic Observer States with significant polar research capabilities. He outlined potential joint expeditions, sharing of research facilities and data, and exchange opportunities for young scientists across institutions. The minister cited the International Polar Year 2032-33 as a natural horizon for this trilateral initiative. This comes amid growing recognition that Observer States must demonstrate tangible scientific contribution to retain meaningful engagement with Arctic governance.

India's Broader Arctic Stance

Singh's remarks reflect a deliberate diplomatic posture: active and constructive engagement rather than passive observation. "We are geographically distant, but scientifically connected. We are an observer, but we seek to be an active and constructive one. And we see the Arctic not as an isolated region, but as an important part of the Earth system that we are all seeking to understand better," he said. The framing aligns with India's broader multilateral strategy of positioning itself as a responsible stakeholder in global commons governance, from the deep sea to outer space and now the poles.