The Lok Sabha has been adjourned for the day after passing the Antarctic Bill, 2022 which aimed at protecting the area under the control of India in Antarctica from illegal exploitation. The Bill seeks to extend the application of domestic laws to research stations set up by India in the Antarctic region.<br />'' <br />'' As soon as the House reassembled at 2 pm, following the second adjournment of the day, Minister of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh moved the Bill for consideration and pass. Explaining the conditions over Antarctic, the minister informed that India has two active research stations, Maitri and Bharti in Antarctica, where scientists are involved in research. He said the bill is necessary as per the UN treaty under the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.<br />'' <br />'' The Bill proposed to prohibit Indian expeditions to Antarctica without a permit or written authorization of another party to the Antarctic Treaty. Inspection by an officer appointed by the government is a must and the penalty for contravention of certain provisions is also included in the proposed legislation.<br />'' <br />'' The Bill also sought to constitute a fund for the welfare of Antarctic research work and the protection of the environment of the icy continent.<br />'' <br />'' BJD member Bhartuhari Mehtab and BJP member Jayanth Sinha spoke in favour of the Bill during the debate.<br />'' <br />'' Congress member Adhir Ranjan Choudhary has sought the Government to take up discussion on GST and Price rise, as the Bill was taken up for discussion.<br />'' <br />''After passing the bill, the Lok Sabha has been adjourned till 2 PM on Monday.