The India Forum is co-hosted by Arctic Circle and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Earth Sciences of India. It will take place in New Delhi on 3-4 May 2025.
The theme of the Forum is The Polar Order: The Arctic and Asia | Science - Geopolitics - Climate - Business. Focusing on Asia’s growing role in Arctic affairs, including in polar research cooperation, business opportunities, climate and sustainable development, maritime activities, and geopolitical dynamics. With Asia seeking to play a growing role in Arctic affairs, this event will highlight how developments in the region are shaping global politics, trade, and sustainability—especially in a time of heightened geopolitical instability.
Hosted in India, the world's most populous country and a fast-growing economy, the Forum underscores the Arctic’s growing relevance beyond its immediate region. Sessions will focus on Arctic shipping, renewable energy, and resource management, helping local businesses and institutions connect with international experts. In these times of rising temperatures and tensions, uplifting and prioritizing scientific cooperation is vital to address global challenges.
As global interest in the Arctic intensifies, the India Forum will provide a platform for critical discussions on cooperation, competition, and the future of the polar regions in an evolving world order.
Arctic Ambassador, Kingdom of Denmark; Next Chair of the Senior Arctic Officials, Arctic Council; Former Representative of Greenland in Washington D.C.
Special Envoy for the Arctic, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation ,Italy
Professor, Department of Economics, and Department of Life-and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland , Iceland
Professor, Political Science, Department of Social Sciences, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway , Norway
Vice Director, Arctic Environment Research Center, National Institute of Polar Research, Japan; Senior Fellow, Sasakawa Peace Foundation , Japan
Pro-rector for Research and Development, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway , Norway
President, Ocean Policy Research Institute of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation , Japan
Senior Cryosphere Specialist and Intervention Manager for Cryosphere Intervention, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development
