Russia has proposed deeper cooperation with India in the Arctic region, particularly on the Northern Sea Route (NSR) — the maritime corridor that connects Asia and Europe along Russia’s northern coast. The proposal includes collaboration in building port infrastructure, investment in Arctic shipping, and a potentially stronger observer role for India in the Arctic Council.
According to observers, Moscow’s outreach reflects its efforts to diversify international partnerships and sustain Arctic development projects amid reduced Western participation following sanctions. The move also aligns with Russia’s long-term goal of legitimizing its presence and influence in the polar region.
🚨Russia wants India in Arctic Council to Navigate Northern Sea Route. pic.twitter.com/ZmkAyMh58Q
— Indian Infra Report (@Indianinfoguide) October 1, 2025
For India, the proposal offers potential strategic and economic advantages. The NSR could shorten shipping times to Europe, while the Arctic’s vast reserves of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and minerals present new opportunities for energy security and investment. Enhanced participation in the Arctic Council could also expand India’s role in global maritime and polar governance.
However, analysts note significant challenges. The NSR traverses heavily militarized Russian waters and remains affected by ongoing sanctions from the United States and the European Union. Engagement in the region may also place India amid intensifying great-power competition, particularly as China advances its own “Polar Silk Road” initiative.
If India chooses to deepen its involvement, the move could extend its strategic reach beyond the Indo-Pacific, positioning it as an emerging player in the geopolitics of the Arctic.
Russia is inviting India into the Arctic – proposing cooperation on the Northern Sea Route (NSR), the icy corridor linking Asia and Europe along Russia’s northern coast.
Moscow wants India to help build ports, invest in Arctic shipping, and even gain a stronger observer role in…
— Velina Tchakarova (@vtchakarova) October 4, 2025