Lok Sabha passes Indian Antarctic Bill

New Delhi, July 22

The Lok Sabha today passed the Indian Antarctic Bill, 2022, a key legislation extending the application of domestic laws to research stations set up by India in the Antarctic region.

The Bill proposes to prohibit Indian expedition to Antarctica without a permit or written authorisation of another party to the Antarctic Treaty, provide for inspection by an officer appointed by the government and for penalty for contravention of certain provisions of the legislation.

When the legislation was introduced by Earth Sciences Minister Jitendra Singh in the previous session, several MPs opposed it, demanding it be sent to a select or standing committee for a deeper analysis. Following a brief debate, the Bill was today passed through voice vote and the House adjourned to meet again at 2 pm on Monday.

What it entails

• India has two active research stations in the Antarctic —Maitri and Bharti (in pic)
• Scientists are involved in research at both stations
• New law will extend the application of domestic laws to these stations
• It will give effect to the Antarctic Treaty, which was signed in 1959 by 12 countries

Singh said the Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 and India became a signatory in 1983. “The main objective of the treaty was that Antarctica is not used for military activity or there is no other misuse, to ensure the demilitarisation of the area. The other objective was to prevent nations from indulging in mining activity or any other illegal activity,” the minister said.

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