Indian Involvement in Murmansk's Cargo Traffic:
Murmansk, known as the Arctic capital, is a key point for the Northern Sea Route (NSR).
In the first seven months of 2023, Indian involvement accounted for 35% of the eight million tonnes of cargo handled by Murmansk port.
Significance of the Arctic Region for India:
The vulnerability of the Arctic region to climate changes has implications for India's economic and water security.
The area holds potential hydrocarbon reserves, and India's approach aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Historical Engagement with the Arctic:
India's engagement traces back to the 1920 signing of the Svalbard Treaty in Paris.
In this treaty, international diplomacy recognized Norwegian sovereignty (the Norwegian administration went in effect by 1925) and other principles relating to Svalbard.
India conducts diverse scientific studies in the Arctic, including atmospheric, biological, marine, hydrological, and glaciological research.
The Northern Sea Route (NSR):
The NSR, a shipping route, connects Europe and Asia-Pacific countries.
It covers four seas in the Arctic Ocean, offering potential distance savings compared to Suez or Panama routes.
Russia's Role in Navigating the NSR:
Russia maintains nuclear-powered icebreakers to facilitate safe navigation on the icebound Arctic seas.
Rosatom's fleet operator, FSUE Atomflot, oversees the nuclear icebreaker fleet's operation.
Driving Factors for India's Participation:
Growing cargo traffic along the NSR, with a 73% growth rate from 2018 to 2022.
India's increasing import of crude oil and coal from Russia contributes to the NSR's importance.
The Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor (CVMC) project aims to link India with container transit through the NSR.
The CVMC project reduces transport time, benefiting trade between India and Russia.
Prospects and Future Developments:
The Russian government's NSR development plan targets 80 million tonnes of cargo traffic by 2024 and 150 million tonnes by 2030.
A Russian delegation held discussions with Indian businesses on NSR development, seeking Indian companies' participation.
A workshop involving stakeholders from India and Russia is expected in the second half of October for the CVMC project.
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