Indian Antarctic Act, 2022

• India’s first domestic legislation regarding Antarctica.
• It aims to provide for national measures
  • for protecting the Antarctic environment and dependent ecosystems
  • it establishes regulations for
    • scientific expeditions
    • individuals
    • businesses
    • tourists visiting Antarctica

1. Environmental Protection

   • environmental protection
   • waste management standards.

2. Jurisdiction of Indian Courts

   • extends the jurisdiction of Indian courts
   • to investigate
   • conduct trials

3. Regulation of Commercial Fishing

   • in the region

4. Operation of Indian Tour Operators:

   • strict regulations for the operation of Indian tour operators

5. Committee on Antarctic Governance and Environmental Protection (CAG-EP):

   • central committee
     • to monitor
     • implement
     • ensure compliance
   • with relevant international laws, emission standards, and rules for the protection of the Antarctic environment.

6. Applicability: The provisions of the Act apply to any person, vessel, or aircraft that is part of an Indian expedition to Antarctica under a permit issued under the Act.