Research Stations in Arctic and Antarctica
India does not intends to increase research stations in Arctic and Antarctica.
India presently has two research stations at Antarctica namely ‘Maitri’ and ‘Bharati’. New station ‘Bharati’ has just been constructed and established in March, 2013. At both the stations, research and investigations are undertaken to understand the Polar processes and phenomenon. Observations and studies are carried out in atmospheric, biological, geological, ecological sciences etc. Maitri station has been in operation since 1989.
Indian Arctic station ‘Himadri’ is located at Ny Alesund, Spitsbergen Island, Norway and serves as a hub of Indian scientific investigations since 2008.. Also we do not have India has ice-breakers for exploration and research in the above places.
In Antarctica scientific studies and investigations are undertaken on the continental part and contiguous shelf ice area. Observations in the ocean in austral summer months are made during the voyage to ‘Maitri’ and ‘Bharati’ on board the chartered vessel hired for transport of material and personnel to these stations.
At Arctic also, meteorological, biological, glaciological and past climate studies are undertaken in the vicinity of the station ‘Himadri’. Local boats are hired for marine research.
A chartered ice breaker ship along with cargo vessel has been used during the construction of “Bharti” Station in Larsemann Hills. Earlier, chartered vessels were used for transporting the personnel and material for the Maitri station.
Acquisition/construction of Polar Research Vessel is under consideration.
Union Minister of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Shri S.Jaipal Reddy gave this information in reply to a written question in the Rajya Sabha today.
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