Mystamp customized with ATCM-46 logo was released in collaboration with India Post

Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of MoES and head of the Indian delegation, announced India's forthcoming submission of environmental evaluations for Maitri-II.

India successfully hosted the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM-46) and the 26th Committee on Environmental Protection (CEP-26) from May 20th to May 30th, 2024, in Kochi, Kerala. The event highlighted India's commitment to Antarctic research and environmental conservation.

Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju announced plans for a new Antarctic research station, Maitri-II. The theme of ATCM-46, "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (One Earth, One Family, One Future), aligns with the Antarctic Treaty's principles of peace, scientific cooperation, and preservation. The meeting was inaugurated by Shri Kiren Rijiju, Ambassador Pavan Kapoor, and Dr. Shailesh Nayak. Ambassador Pankaj Saran chaired the 46th ATCM, with Dr. Vijay Kumar leading the Host Country Secretariat.

Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of MoES and head of the Indian delegation, announced India's forthcoming submission of environmental evaluations for Maitri-II. He emphasized the importance of protecting Antarctica's ecosystems and promoting global environmental sustainability through cooperation.

The ATCM-46 and CEP-26, hosted by the Ministry of Earth Sciences through the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), saw reaffirmations of the Antarctic Treaty (1959) and the Madrid Protocol (1991). The forums discussed a range of Antarctic affairs, including sea ice management, environmental impact assessments, and emperor penguin protection. The Parties adopted 17 new and revised management plans for Antarctic Specially Protected Areas (ASPAs) and discussed tourism management and biosecurity measures.

NCPOR organized several side events, including a seminar on Antarctic governance and environmental challenges, a mural unveiling themed "Species-rich Antarctica" created by schoolchildren, and a panel discussion on scientific diplomacy. A custom stamp with the ATCM-46 logo was also released in collaboration with India Post.

The meetings brought together over 400 delegates from 56 countries, including diplomats, scientists, and experts, to discuss science, policy, governance, logistics, and environmental stewardship. The discussions also covered consultative status requests from Canada and Belarus, though no consensus was reached.

India's active participation in Antarctic affairs and successful hosting of these high-level meetings underscored its dedication to fostering global partnerships and advancing environmental conservation.