About Arctic

The Indian scientific endeavours in the Arctic region. began in 2007 when a five-member team of Indian scientists visited the International Arctic Research facilities at Ny-Ålesund. During the month-long stay, the team initiated three novel scientific projects in the realms of atmospheric science, microbiology, and earth science and glaciology. The success of these early footsteps led to the development of a Science Plan for the Arctic region, establishment of a research base "HIMADRI" at Ny-Ålesund, signing a formal Memorandum of Understanding between the Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI) and NCAOR on focal areas of collaborative scientific research, sustained multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary scientific field studies by Indian scientists at Ny-Ålesund and culminating in India becoming a full-fledged member of the Ny-Ålesund Science Managers Committee (NySMAC). The Arctic scientific activities are organized, coordinated and executed by NCAOR.

This Arctic portal gives a bird’s eye view of the International Research Facilities at Ny-Ålesund, the Indian reaseach base Himadri, India’s Science Plan and also achievements since commencement of research activities. It is hoped that the portal will act as a stimulus for the Indian scientific community to become partners in this national endeavour and also will act as a window for the Indian scientific activities in the Arctic.

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About Himadri

HIMADRI 'the abode of snow' Considering (i) the sustained interest shown by Indian scientists in pursuing scientific studies in the Arctic, (ii) the extensive field and laboratory support required for pursuing these activities in the Arctic, and (iii) the availability of the requisite facilities at the International Arctic Research base at Ny-Ålesund, NCAOR has taken on lease one of the buildings available at Ny-Alesund which has been refurbished and converted to serve as India’s Research Station.