Pranav Birje | The News Bulletins
The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, on Thursday, October 2nd, flagged off a historic direct air cargo flight from Manohar International Airport, Mopa, to Antarctica. Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director, NCPOR, flagged off the Air Cargo Mission.
“This direct route strengthens India’s self-reliant polar logistics and underscores our commitment to cutting-edge Antarctic research,” said Dr. Thamban.
The mission, utilizing a DROMLAN-operated IL-76 aircraft, carried 18 tons of essential supplies, including scientific equipment, medicines, and annual provisions for Indian research stations in the Antarctic.
The mission was facilitated by Shri Thakur Purushottam Singh, Shri Vishram Sabnis, and Shri Anup Kumar Lavangal, GMR Aero Cargo and Logistics, with invaluable support from Alpha Crux, Ultima Antarctic Logistics, South Africa.
Dr. Shailendra Saini, Group Director, Antarctic Operations; Dr. Yogesh Ray, Scientist E; Dr. Ravi Mishra, Scientist E; Dr. Anand Kumar Singh, Scientist E; Rahul Kumar, PS II Mechanical Engineer; Ariz Ahmad, PS I Electrical Engineer; and Brijesh Desai, Executive Assistant, were present at the event.
The pioneering shipment, routed via the gateway city of Cape Town, South Africa, marked a significant step in enhancing logistical efficiency for India’s polar expeditions. The cargo will support ongoing scientific research in glaciology, oceanography, and climate studies at stations like Bharati and Maitri.