New Delhi, August 17: The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has posed significant threats to global trade, prompting China to explore a new maritime route. Beijing has initiated regular container services along the Northern Sea Route (NSR), which runs along Russia’s northern coast. This emerging path through the Arctic ice could serve as a new alternative for China-Europe trade. However, for India, this development signifies more than just trade; it reflects a shifting balance of maritime power.
According to British and American media, China’s shipping company, Sea Legend, has launched an 18-day service from Ningbo-Zhoushan to Felixstowe in the UK via the NSR. In comparison, the same journey through the Suez Canal can take over 40 days. This approximately 5,500-kilometer route remains navigable for longer periods during summer due to reduced sea ice.
The significance of this development for India begins here. China has long sought to incorporate the Arctic into its “Polar Silk Road.” In 2017, President Xi Jinping discussed developing Arctic shipping routes between China and Russia. By launching its first regular commercial service, Beijing appears to be advancing this strategic initiative.
India’s primary concern is that China is attempting to reduce its dependence on maritime routes that could be affected by geopolitical crises. Tensions, wars, or blockades in routes like Hormuz and Suez could disrupt entire supply chains. While the Arctic route has not yet become a viable alternative, China has demonstrated its willingness to invest in alternative paths for the future.
India is not oblivious to this shift. New Delhi’s Arctic policy, launched on March 17, 2022, has expanded beyond climate and scientific research. Energy security, maritime routes, mineral resources, and connectivity with Russia have become key components. India has maintained a scientific presence in the Arctic since 2008 and is now viewing the NSR from both economic and strategic perspectives.
Interestingly, India has its own route to access the Arctic. There are ongoing discussions about connecting the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor to the NSR in the future. The India-Russia trade forum held in New Delhi in 2025 saw agreements between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance cooperation on the NSR. A working group has been established to facilitate collaboration on areas such as training for polar navigation and icebreaker construction.
This indicates that India is not merely a spectator to China’s “Ice Silk Road.” The NSR could serve as an additional route connecting Russia’s Arctic regions to Indian ports. The vision includes linking Indian ports to Vladivostok via the Eastern Maritime Corridor, providing access to the Arctic route.
A significant strategic advantage could arise in the energy sector. The Arctic region of Russia holds vast reserves of oil, gas, and critical minerals. India already imports substantial amounts of energy from Russia. Thus, collaborating with Russia for access to Arctic resources could bolster India’s long-term energy security.
However, the economic benefits of the NSR for India are not as straightforward compared to China. China’s geographical position makes it a more natural user of the Arctic route. For ships traveling from India to Europe, the NSR may not always be a better option than traditional maritime routes. High operational costs, a lack of specialized ice-capable vessels, insurance challenges, and limited navigation seasons pose significant obstacles.
The environmental challenges in the Arctic are also serious. Reports indicate that in the event of an oil spill, relief and cleanup operations could be extremely difficult. Severe cold, remote locations, and limited logistical infrastructure could turn an accident into a long-lasting environmental disaster. Pollutants like black carbon can accumulate on Arctic ice, increasing heat absorption and potentially accelerating global warming.
Moreover, a significant portion of the NSR is under Russian control. Russia’s state nuclear energy company, Rosatom, plays a crucial role in providing navigation permits and icebreaker assistance. The Western sanctions on Russia following the Ukraine conflict have further politicized this route. Questions related to rescue and insurance for international companies in case of accidents or emergencies could also pose challenges.
China has taken the first regular commercial step in this direction. For India, the challenge is not just to keep pace with China but to ensure it does not fall behind in the evolving maritime landscape.
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