India launches first direct air cargo from Goa to Antarctica, supercharging polar research logistics

Panaji: In a major milestone for India's Antarctic operations, the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), based in Goa, has dispatched a direct air cargo flight to the icy continent, carrying 18 tonnes of vital supplies for Indian research stations.

The cargo, which includes scientific instruments, medical supplies and yearly provisions, was flown out on Thursday aboard a DROMLAN-operated IL-76 aircraft from Manohar International Airport in Mopa, North Goa. The initiative was officially flagged off by NCPOR director Dr Thamban Meloth.

“This direct route strengthens India's self-reliant polar logistics and underscores our commitment to cutting-edge Antarctic research,” Dr Meloth stated.

The shipment will reach Antarctica via Cape Town, South Africa—a key transit hub for international polar missions. According to a senior NCPOR spokesperson, the direct delivery marks a notable improvement in the logistical processes that support India’s presence in the polar regions.

“The cargo will support ongoing scientific research in glaciology, oceanography and climate studies at stations like Bharati and Maitri,” the official confirmed.

The operation was made possible with the collaboration of GMR Aero Cargo and Logistics, along with support from Alpha Crux, Ultima Antarctic Logistics and South African partners.

NCPOR, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, leads the nation's polar and Southern Ocean scientific activities and expeditions.

PTI