Cooperation in the Arctic region will be a key priority for Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to India in December, according to sources. The discussions are expected to centre on connectivity and resource development, with a possible announcement on New Delhi’s participation in developing the Northern Sea Route (NSR).
The NSR, which runs through the Arctic Ocean along Russia’s northern coast, offers a strategic alternative to traditional southern maritime routes, being up to 40% shorter. This route promises faster, safer, and more cost-effective cargo movement between Europe and the Indo-Pacific region.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow in July 2024 for the annual India–Russia summit, both nations agreed to set up a joint working group under their intergovernmental commission to explore cooperation in Arctic shipping.
The group, co-chaired by Vladimir Panov, Russia’s Special Representative for Arctic Development at Rosatom, and Rajesh Kumar Sinha, India’s Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, held its first meeting in New Delhi in October 2024.
The discussions covered joint Arctic shipbuilding projects, training Indian sailors for polar navigation, and drafting a memorandum of understanding on cargo shipping cooperation along the NSR.
Officials indicated that Putin’s December visit could mark a significant step forward in India–Russia collaboration in the Arctic, aligning with both nations’ broader goals of enhancing maritime connectivity and energy security.
