43 Indians embark on India’s 40th scientific expedition to Antarctica from Goa

Indians embark on India’s 40th scientific expedition to Antarctica from Goa on January 5 with 43 members, less than the conventional strength, due to COVID-19.

As reported by HT, The team comprises scientists, engineers, doctors and technicians and is led by three polar veterans, said Javed Beg, group director (Antarctic Operations and Infrastructure) at the National Centre for Polar and Oceanic Research (NCPOR) in Goa.

The team was given a formal send off at the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) in Vasco town of South Goa on Monday by senior officials of the NCPOR, the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), which is providing fuel for the expedition, and the India Post, which has released a special stamp to mark the occasion.

The vessel will sail from Goa’s MPT to Cape Town, from where it will reach Antarctica in about 18 days. Two helicopters will be added to the expedition at Cape Town.