Russia and India explore Northern Sea shipping route

India and Russia have come together to expand the use of the Northern Sea shipping route that crosses via the Arctic and might include some of the processing facilities.

As per the report of Reuters, Alexei Chekunkov, Russia’s minister for the development of the far east and Arctic said that he has spoken to Indian officials during his visit and has confirmed that the route is safe and reliable to transport goods through the northern sea route using Russian and Indian ports.

The Northern Sea Route runs along Russia's northern coastline and is the shortest transport route between East Asia and Europe, offering significant cost cuttings, and Russia is looking to make the route a major shipping trade land as it has heavily invested in infrastructure there.

Currently, the route is not being used due to thick ice, but there are plans to start operations by the end of 2023.