Indian Antarctic Bill introduces permits for Antarctic entry and activities

It aims to give effect to India's obligations under the Antarctic Treaty, the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources, and the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty.

Who it concerns: The law applies to Indian citizens, citizens of other countries, companies or entities registered in India, and any vessel or aircraft registered in India or abroad, provided they are part of an Indian expedition to Antarctica under a permit issued under this Act. It also applies to vessels registered in India but chartered by other parties for entering Antarctica.

What the bill does

• Requires permits for entering Antarctica, staying in Indian stations, and for vessels/aircraft entering the region.
• Mandates permits for mineral resource activities, introducing non-native animals/plants, waste disposal, and commercial fishing.
• Prohibits nuclear explosions, disposal of radioactive waste, introduction of non-sterile soil, and damage to historic sites.
• Establishes a Committee on Antarctic Governance and Environmental Protection to issue permits and oversee compliance.
• Creates a system for waste classification, management, and removal from Antarctica.
• Defines duties and liabilities for operators in cases of environmental emergencies.
• Specifies penalties for contraventions by persons, vessels, aircraft, and companies.
• Constitutes a fund for related expenses and designates a court for jurisdiction over offences.

Also in the document

• The Bill is intended to implement international treaties and protocols to which India is a party.
• It creates specific offences and penalties for violations of environmental and operational rules in Antarctica.
• It establishes a dedicated Committee for governance and environmental protection in the Antarctic region.