India initiated its Arctic Research Program in 2007 with thrust on climate change in the circumpolar north. The major objectives of the Indian Research in Arctic Region are as follows:
 To study the hypothesized tele-connections between the Arctic climate and the Indian monsoon by analyzing the sediment and ice core records from the Arctic glaciers and the Arctic Ocean.
 To characterize sea ice in Arctic using satellite data to estimate the effect of global warming in the northern polar region.
 To conduct research on the dynamics and mass budget of Arctic glaciers focusing on the effect of glaciers on sea-level change.
 To carry out a comprehensive assessment of the flora and fauna of the Artic vis--vis their response to anthropogenic activities. In addition, it is proposed to undertake a comparative study of the life forms from both the Polar Regions.
India launched its first scientific expedition to the Arctic Ocean in 2007 and opened a research base named "Himadri at the International Arctic Research Base at Ny-Alesund, Svalbard, Norway in July 2008 for carrying out studies in disciplines like Glaciology, Atmospheric sciences & Biological sciences.
India has also entered into MOU with Norwegian Polar Research Institute of Norway, for cooperation in science, as also with Kings Bay (A Norwegian Government owned company) at Ny-Alesund for logistic and infrastructure facilities for undertaking Arctic research and maintaining Indian Research base Himadri at Arctic region.
A number of scientists from different national institutions have participated in India's Arctic programme. A sum of over US$ 12 million has been committed for financial investments in Arctic Studies for the next 5 years. India was elected to the Council of the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) in 2012. In recognition of contribution to Arctic Studies India was granted observer status to the Arctic Council at the Eighth Ministerial meeting of the Arctic Council in Kiruna, Norway in May 2013.
The impact of rapid changes in the Arctic region goes beyond the littoral states and any legitimate and credible mechanism to respond to these challenges calls for active participation of all those actors who have a stake in the governance of global commons. The interplay between science and policy has the potential to contribute to the better handling of the complex issues facing the Arctic. India is committed to contribute to the deliberations to develop effective cooperative partnerships that can contribute to a safe, stable and secure Arctic.