Archive · 16 Dec 2025
India Delays Maitri II Antarctica Station Completion to 2032
India is building a new research station in Antarctica called Maitri II.
The government has approved money for planning and design.
The station will help scientists study things like climate change, ice, and animals.
It will replace the old Maitri station, which has been there since 1989.
The new station will have better labs and equipment.
It will cost a lot of money and take many years to build.
Scientists will use it to learn more about Antarctica and share their findings with the world.
India's Maitri II research station in Antarctica is now expected to be completed by 2032, delayed from the initial 2029 target.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences has approved Rs 29.2 crore for pre-investment activities, including design and project planning.
Maitri II will cost an estimated Rs 2,000 crore and will enhance India's scientific research capabilities in Antarctica.
The new station will feature modern laboratories and advanced facilities for various scientific disciplines.
Maitri II will replace the existing Maitri I station, which has been operational since 1989 in the Schirmacher Oasis.
- Who
- India's Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
- What
- Construction of Maitri II research station in Antarctica
- When
- Completion by 2032, pre-investment activities ongoing
- Where
- East Antarctica, replacing Maitri I in Schirmacher Oasis
- Why
- To enhance India's scientific research capabilities in Antarctica
- Project Name
- Maitri II
- Location
- East Antarctica
- Completion Timeline
- 2032
- Estimated Cost
- Rs 2,000 crore
- Pre-investment Funding
- Rs 29.2 crore
- Operational Start
- After 2032
- Current Station
- Maitri I (since 1989)
- Research Focus
- Biology, Earth Sciences, Glaciology, Atmospheric Sciences, Climate Studies