Explained: What is Indian Antarctic Bill 2022 and why is it important

The Indian Antarctic Bill provides a regulatory framework for India's Antarctic activities through legal mechanisms

The Lok Sabha last week passed the Indian Antarctic Bill 2022 to assist in protecting the frozen continent where India operates two research centres and is part of several scientific explorations.

During a discussion on the bill, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, Jitendra Singh said, "the main aim is to ensure de-militarisation of the (Antarctic) region along with getting rid of mining or illegal activities."

Antarctica is the southernmost continent and does not have any indigenous population. The entire region is demilitarised and is used for scientific and peaceful purposes as per the Antarctic Treaty that