PANAJI
India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, hosted the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Asian Forum for Polar Sciences (AFoPS) in Kochi on September 18 and 19.
Representatives from China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand attended the meeting, along with an observer from the United Arab Emirates. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in Arctic, Antarctic and Southern Ocean research.
A major focus was the Fifth International Polar Year (IPY-5), planned for 2032-33. Under the theme ‘IPY-5: AFoPS Roadmap for Collaborative Endeavours’, participants discussed national priorities, possible joint initiatives and ways to strengthen the contribution of Asian countries to the global polar science programme.
Discussions covered polar and ocean observations, data sharing, research infrastructure, logistics, capacity building and collaborative research. Participants also discussed cooperation to improve understanding of changes in the Arctic and Antarctic, including sea-ice variability.
India shared updates on its Antarctic and Arctic programmes, Southern Ocean activities, polar infrastructure and international scientific cooperation.
Education and public outreach were also discussed during a dedicated AFoPS session. Participating countries shared experiences in raising awareness about polar science and engaging students and the wider public.
India presented its Polar Education and Outreach initiatives, along with presentations from China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand.
NCPOR Director and Chair of the AFoPS AGM 2026, Dr Thamban Meloth, said the meeting provided a platform for Asian countries to exchange expertise, identify common scientific priorities and strengthen cooperation in polar research.
He said sustained observations, data sharing, coordinated research and capacity building would be important in strengthening the contribution of Asian countries to global polar research, particularly in the run-up to IPY-5.
The AGM concluded with a business meeting where national coordinators and representatives reviewed AFoPS activities and discussed its future direction. NCPOR, based in Goa, is India’s nodal institution for polar research.
