India’s First Antarctic Expedition: Dr. S.Z. Qasim’s Historic Journey (1981-82)
Leader: Dr. S.Z. Qasim, Director of the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa.
Expedition Start: 6 December 1981 from Mormugao Harbour, Goa.
Ship: MV Polar Circle (Norwegian vessel).
Arrival in Antarctica: 9 January 1982.
Mission: Establish India’s first research station in Antarctica.
Return Date: 21 February 1982.
Location: Queen Maud Land, East Antarctica.
India’s First Antarctic Research Base – A landmark in polar science and climate research.
Laid the foundation for India’s continued Antarctic presence under the Antarctic Treaty System.
Placed India on the Global Antarctic Map – India became one of the few nations conducting research in Antarctica.
Pioneered Polar Research – Opened new avenues for glaciology, climate change studies, and oceanography.
Inspired Future Expeditions – Led to the establishment of Maitri (1989) and Bharati (2012), India’s permanent Antarctic research stations.
Dr. S.Z. Qasim’s leadership in the first Indian Antarctic expedition was a milestone in India’s scientific exploration, paving the way for India’s status as a major player in polar research.
