India recently took a significant step in the global sphere of scientific collaboration by hosting the first meeting of the Steering Committee on the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting 2024 (SC-ATCM, 2024). The meeting, chaired by Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Dr. M Ravichandran, gathered senior officials from the Ministry of Earth Sciences, representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Ministry of Home Affairs (HMO), and the Government of Kerala.
The agenda covered a comprehensive overview of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings, providing an update on the preparations for the upcoming 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) to be hosted in Kochi, India. The meeting delved into detailed discussions on crucial focus areas and organizational arrangements for the event, aiming to ensure its success and efficiency.
India’s hosting of the 46th ATCM 2024 and the 26th Committee on Environmental Protection (CEP) in Kochi from May 20-30 signifies the nation’s commitment to Antarctic research, global collaboration, and discussions on preservation. This event serves as a platform for nations around the world to converge, exchange ideas, and collectively address environmental concerns and challenges in Antarctica.
The forthcoming ATCM event underscores India’s dedication to advancing scientific research, fostering international cooperation, and actively participating in global initiatives aimed at environmental conservation and sustainable practices. The event is expected to facilitate critical discussions, enabling nations to chart a course toward preserving Antarctica’s delicate ecosystem while promoting scientific exploration and cooperation on a global scale.