Q. Which one of the following statements best describes the 'Polar Code'? (UPSC Prelims 2022)
Answer: It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters.
Notes: The correct answer is [A] It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters.The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) is a mandatory regime adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It entered into force on January 1, 2017.

• Objective (Statement A - Correct): The code provides for safe ship operation and environmental protection in the unique, harsh conditions of the Arctic and Antarctic. It covers the full range of design, construction, equipment, operational, training, search and rescue, and environmental protection matters relevant to ships operating in the inhospitable waters surrounding the two poles.
• Territorial Demarcation (Statement B - Incorrect): Territorial claims in the North Pole are generally governed by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), not a "Polar Code."
• Scientific Norms (Statement C - Incorrect): While scientific research is governed by treaties like the Antarctic Treaty (for the South Pole), the Polar Code specifically targets maritime shipping safety and pollution prevention.
• Arctic Council Agreement (Statement D - Incorrect): The Arctic Council is a high-level intergovernmental forum. While it discusses security and trade, the Polar Code is an international regulatory instrument under the IMO, applicable to all member nations whose ships traverse these regions.

The Polar Code is implemented through amendments to existing international conventions, specifically SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) for safety matters and MARPOL (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) for environmental matters.