Who led India's first expedition to the Antarctic in 1982?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Dr. SZ Qasim.

Explanation:
Dr. SZ Qasim led India's first Antarctic expedition in 1982. The mission was aimed at scientific research and establishing India's presence in Antarctica. His leadership marked India's entry into polar research, which later led to the establishment of research stations in Antarctica.

Information Booster:

• Dr. SZ Qasim was a renowned marine biologist and oceanographer.
• The first Indian Antarctic research station, Dakshin Gangotri, was set up in 1983.
• India's Antarctic program is now managed by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR).
• Other Indian research stations in Antarctica include Maitri (1989) and Bharati (2012).