India Set to Become 6th Nation with Its Own Deep Sea Mission

New Delhi: India is poised to join an elite group of nations with its own Deep Sea Mission, according to Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, and MoS Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. Dr. Singh made this announcement while chairing a meeting in New Delhi to discuss the 100-day Action Plan of the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Expressing pride in India’s progress, Dr. Singh highlighted that the Deep Sea Mission places India among the very few nations to achieve this significant milestone. He emphasized the mission’s broader goals beyond mineral exploration, including the development of ocean sciences, exploration of marine flora and fauna, and the conservation of marine biodiversity.

“The mission is not limited to mineral exploration but also focuses on the development of ocean sciences and the exploration and conservation of marine biodiversity,” Dr. Singh stated.

The Union Minister commended the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) for its work on Matsya 6000, a submersible capable of descending to depths of 6000 meters. Dr. Singh directed officials to complete the first stage of the harbor trial by September 2024 and to finish subsequent trials by 2026.

Dr. Singh also praised the collaborative efforts between NIOT and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in developing a Titanium Hull capable of withstanding extreme pressures. He inquired about the progress of the ‘Self-Floatation’ technology, designed to ensure the submersible can remain submerged for 72 hours in emergency conditions. He also noted the advancements in achieving a four-hour descent for the submersible.

“Deep Sea Mission has the potential to contribute greatly to the overall growth of the Indian economy,” Dr. Singh said, emphasizing the mission’s multifaceted impact. This includes the exploration and discovery of rare earth metals, polymetallic nodules, and other valuable resources on the Indian seabed, which could significantly boost India’s economic prospects.

Dr. Singh also motivated scientists and officials to focus on developing indigenous technology and capabilities to reduce India’s dependence on foreign resources.

The Deep Sea Mission, with its focus on blue economy resilience, aims to empower communities dependent on ocean resources for their livelihood, ensuring sustainable and equitable growth.