**India to Reap Significant Benefits from Arctic Northern Sea Route, Maritime Expert Says**
India stands to gain substantial advantages from the Northern Sea Route (NSR), also known as the Arctic route, particularly in the fields of logistics and port management, according to maritime expert Anurag Bisen. In an interview with RT India, Bisen emphasized that India recognized the potential of the NSR nearly two decades ago, marking its commitment with the first expedition to the Arctic in 2007. This was followed by the establishment of India’s first permanent research station, Himadri, in 2008.
Bisen noted that the Indian government’s Arctic policy, released in 2022, has further solidified the country's focus on the Arctic region. He highlighted that India has extended a $1 billion line of credit aimed at funding projects in Russia’s Far East, underscoring the growing economic ties between the two nations.
"India's largest investments in hydrocarbons, exceeding $15 billion, are concentrated in Russia, particularly in the Sakhalin region, which has proven to be quite profitable," Bisen stated. He pointed out that during a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to New Delhi, an agreement was signed for the training of Indian seafarers, which is set to enhance India's capabilities in Arctic navigation.
As the NSR opens up, Bisen anticipates a significant increase in demand for Indian seafarers, who currently represent the second-largest supply of maritime personnel globally. This demand is one of the driving factors behind India’s agreement with Russia to train Indian seafarers in polar navigation, preparing them for the unique challenges of Arctic waters.
The NSR is expected to facilitate the opening of over 20 ports, presenting opportunities for India to engage in port management and operations. Bisen suggested that India could potentially acquire and manage these ports, thereby expanding its maritime footprint in the region.
In addition to port management, India’s Hydrographic Department is poised to play a critical role in mapping the Arctic region. Bisen mentioned that India has established agreements with various countries to develop hydrographic charts, including collaborative efforts with Russia in Antarctica. This expertise could be leveraged to create similar charts for the Arctic, enhancing navigational safety and efficiency.
Bisen also highlighted the strategic significance of the NSR for India's energy security. Approximately one-third of India's crude oil supplies originate from Russia. By facilitating the transport of Russian oil from the Far East to Indian ports on the eastern coast, India could reduce its vulnerability to disruptions in critical maritime chokepoints such as Bab-el-Mandeb and Hormuz.
The Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor, announced in 2019 and operational since last year, is a key component of this strategy. Bisen emphasized the necessity of upgrading infrastructure along India’s eastern seaboard to support this corridor and ensure a more resilient supply chain.
As the Arctic region continues to open up due to climate change and melting ice, the opportunities for India in terms of maritime trade, energy security, and international cooperation are becoming increasingly apparent. Bisen's insights suggest that India is well-positioned to capitalize on these developments, fostering deeper ties with Russia and enhancing its role in the Arctic maritime landscape.
In conclusion, the NSR represents not only a new avenue for trade and logistics for India but also an opportunity for broader cooperation with Russia across various sectors, including space, defense, and energy. As India continues to navigate its Arctic ambitions, the coming years will be crucial in shaping its maritime future.