Released by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, it clearly highlights that the region is warming far faster than the rest of the planet. 

Key Highlights

• Arctic Surface Air Temperatures: It was highest on record during the past year (October 2024-September 2025) since 1900. 
  • The last 10 years are the 10 warmest on record in the Arctic.
• Atlantification: An influx of anomalous water properties and biota from lower latitudes to central Arctic Ocean. 
  • It weakens the Arctic Ocean stratification enhancing heat transfer, melting sea ice, and threatening ocean circulation patterns. 
• Rusting of Rivers:  In Arctic Alaska, surface waters have changed from clear to orange in over 200 watersheds due to iron release from thawing permafrost soils, impacting both fishes and water supplies to local communities. 
• Greening of the Arctic: First detected in the late 1990s, it is a long-term increase in the productivity and abundance of tundra vegetation. 

• It has far-reaching impacts to Arctic landscapes, wildlife habitats, biodiversity, permafrost conditions, and the livelihood of Arctic people. 

Key Geopolitical Implications of the Arctic Melting

• New Shipping Routes: Previously impassable regions like Northern Sea Route (NSR), along Russia’s Arctic coast from the Kara Sea to the Bering Strait, has become increasingly viable. 
• Role of Arctic Council: As a leading intergovernmental forum to enhance cooperation and protection for indigenous communities. 
  • Established in 1996, it comprises eight member states including  Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, USA. 
• Importance for India: With its Research Station, Himadri and Arctic Policy, India could enhance engagement and research in the region.