The Modern Arctic Policy of India

Abstract

Aim. To study India’s Arctic policy by considering its conceptual, institutional and procedural components. Methods. Structural-analytical approach, document analysis, comparative analysis, generalization and synthesis.
Results. The article examines the provisions of a strategically important document of India dedicated to the implementation of policy in the Arctic, government bodies competent to implement India’s Arctic policy, their main functions, and the directions of Delhi’s activities in the Arctic. The trends along which actions are actually taken are compared with the directions enshrined in the country’s strategic document on Arctic policy.
Conclusions. The document “Arctic Policy” is only declarative, political in nature. The policy document establishing the action plan for the implementation of policy in the Arctic with deadlines has not yet been adopted. There are no standards for holding people accountable for improper implementation of activities. A specialized body responsible for implementing policy in India has not been created, despite its mention in India’s Arctic Policy. The scientific direction in the Arctic is key for India. It is also highlighted as a priority in the Arctic policy, which is a weak point of Indian Arctic policy. There are 5 more areas of Indian activity in the Arctic that are at the stage of formation or development. Norway is India’s main partner, close ties are developing with Russia. There are serious omissions in the country’s Arctic policy related to the lack of an icebreaker, non-participation in the Barents Euro-Arctic Council, and poor investment in Arctic projects. The practical significance of the scientific work lies in the ability to use its results to further build a dialogue with the Indian government and business community, and its conclusions can form the basis of future scientific research.