Minister of State for External Affairs Presents India Perspective on Melting Polar Regions at Arctic Assembly
Sachin Malik India: Amid Growing Global concerns over Climate Change, Minister of State for External Affairs and Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh led the Indian delegation at the annual meeting of the Arctic Circle Assembly (ACA) 2026, held in Reykjavik, Iceland. During his three-day diplomatic visit to Iceland, he Strongly Presented India Perspective on the Changes taking Place in the Polar regions and their impact on the Global Climate System.
According to a Statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh Participated in a key Plenary session titled “Melting Poles: Perspectives from India and Singapore.” During the session, India highlighted that rising temperatures in the Arctic are not merely a regional concern but are also affecting sea levels, weather Patterns and biodiversity across the world. India Particularly Emphasised the interconnections between the Arctic, the Himalayas—often referred to as the “Third Pole” and Global Climate Systems.
The Ministry Stated that India also organised a dedicated session at the Global forum titled “The Arctic and Climate Change: Perspectives from Observer Countries.” In his opening address, the Minister of State emphasised that Geographical boundaries cannot define the limits of Climate Systems. He Pointed out that although India is Geographically distant from the Arctic, Changes occurring in the region directly influence the Indian monsoon and agricultural Cycles.
In his diplomatic address, the Minister referred to India Arctic Policy 2022, which is based on six key Pillars: Science and research, environmental Protection, economic and human development, transportation and connectivity, Governance and international cooperation and capacity building. Referring to India Himadri research Station in Svalbard, he reiterated India commitment to a Science-first approach, Polar research and international cooperation for sustainable Development.
Separately, Singh held a bilateral meeting with Iceland Minister for the Environment, Energy and Climate Change, Johann Pall Johannsson.
Following the meeting, he wrote on ‘X’ that the discussions had been meaningful and focused on opportunities to Strengthen bilateral cooperation in renewable energy, Climate action and Sustainable development. He Expressed India Eagerness to deepen Engagement in these critical areas and advance Practical cooperation between the two Countries.
