Goa: The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has flagged off its first-ever direct air cargo mission to Antarctica from Manohar International Airport, Mopa.
The historic flight took place on October 2, led by NCPOR Director Dr Thamban Meloth, marking a milestone in India’s polar logistics.
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NCPOR Direct Air Cargo Mission to Antartica Strengthens Research
The direct air cargo mission to Antarctica mission was executed with a DROMLAN-operated IL-76 aircraft, transporting 18 tons of crucial supplies, including scientific equipment, medicines, and annual provisions for India’s Antarctic research bases – Bharati and Maitri.
“This direct route strengthens India’s self-reliant polar logistics and underscores our commitment to advancing Antarctic research,” said Dr Thamban.
The operation was supported by GMR Aero Cargo and Logistics officials Thakur Purushottam Singh, Vishram Sabnis, and Anup Kumar Lavangal, with vital collaboration from Alpha Crux, Ultima Antarctic Logistics, and South African partners.
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Cargo Routed via Cape Town for Polar Expedition Support
The consignment was routed through Cape Town, South Africa, reinforcing logistical efficiency for India’s ongoing polar expeditions. The supplies will fuel critical research in glaciology, oceanography, and climate studies.
Senior officials and scientists, including Dr Shailendra Saini (Group Director, Antarctic Operations), Dr Yogesh Ray, Dr Ravi Mishra, Dr Anand Kumar Singh, and engineering staff Rahul Kumar and Ariz Ahmad, were present during the flag-off ceremony.
The pioneering direct air cargo mission to Antarctica marks a transformative step in India’s Antarctic logistics, enhancing self-reliance and strengthening research capabilities in extreme polar conditions.
