Antarctica, a vast expanse of ice and land, harbours one of the most intriguing features under its ice—the subglacial lakes. These isolated lakes form a part of the basal hydrological system and conceal unique biological ecosystems and climate records,thus prompting more scientific missions along with numerous challenges.

India’s visibility in the exploration of polar frontiers has progressed appreciably over time. India is now widely viewed as an emergent power, warranting multi-disciplinary international collaborations. Such interventions will help India establish a niche domain in global scientific affairs.

The sea-level change reconstructed for the last three million years shows that the sea-level has been higher by 5 m than the present when global temperatures were warmer by 2oC than that which existed during the pre-industrial level.

India is making major advances in polar research. At the same time, it is also inspiring the younger generation to work in this sector. Polar outreach activities are aimed to connect teachers, students and citizens and help enthusiastic scientists, educators and communicators take an active interest in Polar research.