India's Vision for ATCM 46: A Strategic Outlook for the Future of Antarctica
India is set to host the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in 2024 at Kochi, Kerala. Experts view this meeting as crucial for the future of Antarctic Climate Change and tourism. Besides, the expiration of the Antarctic Treaty in 2048 is another area of concern for both policy-makers and the scientific community. As a Consultative Party to the Antarctic Treaty, the ATCM 46 holds great significance for India from both environmental and strategic perspectives. Introduction The recently concluded XLV Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM45) held at Helsinki focused on the urgency of climate action. Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing Antarctica. The sea level rise caused by melting ice sheets is concerning the scientists and policy-makers as its effects are being felt world over. Besides, maritime safety in the Polar regions, growing tourism and geopolitical interest in Antarctica were also the important focus areas of the Helsink...