India calls for global cooperation on Antarctica protection at 46th ATCM in Kochi
India's aim is to bring more nations into the Treaty to share the responsibility of preserving Antarctica's pristine environment.
India has taken a significant step in rallying global cooperation in protecting Antarctica by hosting the 46th ATCM in Kochi. Representatives from 56 Treaty Parties attended, and with Saudi Arabia joining as the latest member, the total number of parties is now 57. India’s aim is to bring more nations into the Treaty to share the responsibility of preserving Antarctica’s pristine environment.
Thamban Meloth, Director of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), spoke on India’s neutral stance in Antarctic geopolitics and the importance of inclusivity. “India advocates for inclusivity within the Antarctic Treaty community. We believe that more responsible nations should join the Treaty to secure the future of Antarctica,” he stated.
At the meeting, India’s efforts were focused on the need to regulate the growing tourism in Antarctica. For the first time, a third working group was introduced to develop sustainable tourism policies. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, pointed out the surge in visitors to Antarctica and the necessity of protecting the environment. He mentioned that last year alone, one lakh people visited Antarctica, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory measures.
Additionally, India revealed plans to replace the aging Maitri research station with a new facility, continuing its commitment to scientific research in the region. Moreover, discussions at the Kochi meeting included strategies to prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, reflecting the wide range of issues involved in preserving Antarctica’s unique environment.
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