Mains Marathon

• In Introduction write about Continent of Antarctica and its unique nature.
• Write about the world's policy about antarctica and issues currently faced by antarctica like increase of tourism and danger of militarization of the continent and its exploitation for the monetary gain.
  • Also point out the need of a comprehensive global policy for antarctica to preserve it ecological and other uniqueness. And mention about the India's policy towards the continent and recent introduced Antarctica bill by the parliament.
• Conclude suitably.

Answer:

Antarctica, the southernmost continent, is a pristine and unique region that holds tremendous value for the world. It is home to diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and serves as a crucial scientific laboratory for studying climate change. In recent years, the global community has recognized Antarctica's immense potential and the need to protect it from militarization and exploitation.

World Policy towards Antarctica and Current Challenges: Currently, Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS), which includes several international agreements aimed at preserving the continent for peaceful purposes and scientific research.

• The Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) is the main framework for regulating international relations and cooperation in Antarctica. It consists of four major agreements: the Antarctic Treaty of 1959, the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Seals of 1972, the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources of 1980, and the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty of 1991.
• The ATS aims to ensure that Antarctica is used for peaceful purposes only, that scientific investigation and exchange of information are promoted, that the Antarctic environment and its dependent and associated ecosystems are protected, and that no new territorial claims or sovereignty disputes are allowed.

However, the ATS is not sufficient to address all the issues and challenges that Antarctica faces in the 21st century. Some of these issues include:

• The increasing demand for Antarctic resources, such as fish, minerals, oil, and gas, may lead to overexploitation and environmental degradation.
• The growing number of tourists and non-governmental activities in Antarctica, which may pose risks to the safety and health of visitors and wildlife, as well as generate waste and pollution.
• The potential militarization of Antarctica by some countries or groups, which may violate the spirit and principles of the ATS and threaten the peace and stability of the region.
• The lack of effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms for ensuring compliance with the ATS and its related agreements without any exemptions.
  • Norway and Iceland have granted themselves exemptions from ban on Killing whales for profit in in an Antarctic marine protection area.
• The need for more participation and representation of developing countries and indigenous peoples in the decision-making processes of the ATS.

Therefore, there is a need for a comprehensive global policy for Antarctica that can address these issues and challenges in a holistic and coordinated manner. Such a policy should:

• Strengthen the existing ATS by updating its provisions, expanding its scope, enhancing its transparency and accountability, and improving its dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Promote international cooperation and dialogue among all stakeholders involved in Antarctic affairs, including governments, scientific institutions, civil society organizations, indigenous peoples, and the private sector.
• Balance the interests and rights of all parties with respect to Antarctic resources, while ensuring their sustainable use and conservation.
• Develop common standards and guidelines for regulating tourism and non-governmental activities in Antarctica, as well as providing education and awareness programs for visitors and operators.
• Prevent any military or security-related activities in Antarctica that may compromise its peaceful status or endanger its environment or wildlife.
• Support scientific research and innovation in Antarctica that can contribute to the advancement of human knowledge and well-being.

India’s policy for Antarctica: India is one of the active participants in Antarctic affairs. India signed the Antarctic Treaty in 1983. India has also ratified the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources in 1986. India operates two research stations in Antarctica: Maitri and Bharati.

To strengthen its commitment for preservation of uniqueness and scientific mission, India has passed the Indian Antarctic Bill, 2022. The bill also aims to protect the Antarctic environment and its dependent and associated ecosystems. The bill provides for:

• The establishment of a Committee on Antarctic Governance and Environmental Protection under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, responsible for granting permits for various activities in Antarctica.
• The requirement of a permit or authorization from the committee or another party for various activities in Antarctica by Indian expeditions or entities. These activities include entering or remaining in Antarctica; drilling, dredging or excavating mineral resources; harming native species; disposing of waste; etc.
• The prohibition of certain activities in Antarctica includes nuclear explosion or disposal of radioactive wastes; introduction of non-sterile soil; discharge of garbage or plastic into the sea; etc.

Antarctica is a vital and vulnerable region that requires a comprehensive global policy for its governance and management. The ATS is the main framework for such a policy, but it needs to be strengthened and updated to address the emerging issues and challenges. India is one of the key players in Antarctic affairs and contribute to the global efforts to preserve and protect this unique and valuable continent.