Antarctic Parliament Meets in Kochi
Kartavya Desk Staff
#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Conext: India has hosted the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM 46) in Kochi, organized by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research through the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
What is ATCM (also called Antarctic Parliament)
The Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) is an annual gathering of the parties to the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, including the original twelve signatories and other nations conducting significant research in Antarctica.
At this year’s ATCM, India will introduce a new working group focused on formulating regulations to monitor tourism and protect the continent’s fragile ecosystem. Representatives from the 56 member countries of the Antarctic Treaty will attend. This is the first time India is hosting the meeting since 2007.
Key Agenda at ATCM 46
• Promoting peaceful governance in Antarctica.
• Introducing a new working group to regulate tourism and mitigate its impact on the fragile ecosystem.
• Discussing sustainable management of resources, biodiversity, research collaboration, and climate change impacts.
• Presenting India’s plan for the construction of Maitri II.
About Antarctic Treaty
The Antarctic Treaty, signed on December 1, 1959, and in force since June 23, 1961, is an international agreement governing activities in Antarctica. It designates the continent as a scientific preserve, ensuring it remains exclusively for peaceful purposes. Initially signed by 12 countries, the treaty now includes 56 signatories, with India joining in 1983. Key provisions prohibit military activities, promote scientific cooperation, and ban nuclear explosions and radioactive waste disposal.
India in Antarctica
Since 1983, India has been a consultative party to the Antarctic Treaty, participating in governance decisions. India operates three research stations: Dakshin Gangotri (1983-1990), Maitri (since 1989), and Bharati (since 2012). India plans to establish a new station, Maitri II, by 2029. In 2022, India enacted the Antarctic Act to reaffirm its commitment to the treaty’s principles.