Deep Sea Exploration: Potential, Significance & Challenges

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India has achieved a significant milestone in deep-sea exploration with the successful wet testing of Matsya-6000, a manned submersible designed for depths of 6,000 meters. This accomplishment aligns with the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM), strengthening India’s role in marine resource exploration, energy security, and global Blue Economy participation.

India’s Deep-Sea Exploration and Potential

India is the 6^th country to launch its own Deep-Sea Mission for resource exploration and marine biodiversity study.
The UN International Seabed Authority has allocated India 75,000 sq. km in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) for polymetallic nodule (PMN) exploration.
The CIOB reserves hold an estimated 380 million metric tonnes (MMT) of PMNs, rich in copper, nickel, cobalt, and manganese, valued at $110 billion.
Extracting just 10% of these resources could meet India’s energy needs for 100 years and reduce import dependence on critical minerals.
The deep-sea mission aligns with the UN’s Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030), promoting sustainable marine resource utilisation.
Advancements in deep-sea mining technology and environmental safeguards are crucial for balancing economic benefits with marine ecosystem conservation.

Significance of Deep-Sea Exploration

Mineral and Energy Resources: India’s deep ocean holds vast reserves of polymetallic nodules, gas hydrates, oil, and rare earth elements. E.g, Polymetallic nodule reserves are estimated at 380 MMT.
Food Security and Marine Biotechnology: Fisheries and marine bioresources contribute significantly to India’s economy and food security. E.g., Marine biotechnology is projected to generate USD 100 million by 2025 (UNCTAD).
Environmental & Climate Research: Enhances long-term ocean monitoring and improves cyclone, tsunami, and rising sea level predictions.
Digital Economy & Undersea Infrastructure: Over 95% of global internet traffic relies on undersea, fibre-optic cables, making their security and expansion critical.

Government Initiatives for Deep-Sea Exploration in India

Deep Ocean Mission (DOM): Led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), DOM focuses on deep-sea mineral exploration, biodiversity studies, and climate research using advanced technologies.
Samudrayaan Mission: India’s first manned deep-sea mission, featuring the Matsya-6000 submersible, was designed to explore seabed resources at a depth of 6,000m.
National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT): Develops AUVs, ROVs, underwater robotics, and a deep-sea mining system for polymetallic nodule extraction from depths of 5,000–6,000m.
EEZ & ECS Mapping: Conducted by NCPOR, surveying India’s 2 million sq. km EEZ and Extended Continental Shelf (ECS) to assess marine resources.
OTEC & Offshore Energy Projects: NIOT is implementing Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion projects, including a desalination plant in Lakshadweep, using ocean temperature differences for renewable energy.

Challenges in Deep-Sea Exploration

Extreme Pressure & Structural Integrity: At 6,000m depth, pressure exceeds 600 times surface levels, requiring specialised materials like titanium alloys. E.g., Matsya-6000’s titanium hull withstands extreme conditions.
Environmental Risks of Mining: Extracting polymetallic nodules disturbs fragile ecosystems, impacting biodiversity and carbon storage. E.g., ISA mandates Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before commercial mining.
High Costs & Technological Barriers: Developing AUVs, ROVs, and deep-sea drilling technology demands heavy investment. E.g., Matsya-6000 alone costs ₹350 crore.
Limited Infrastructure: India lacks adequate research vessels, underwater robotics, and oceanographic equipment, slowing progress.
Legal & Geopolitical Constraints: Compliance with UNCLOS regulations and competition from China, the US, and Russia limit India’s access to key deep-sea resources.

India’s Future Course of Action

Strengthening Financial & Research Infrastructure: Enhance funding, research facilities, and a skilled workforce to advance deep-sea technology.
Advancing Through Deep Ocean Mission: Drive technological progress through initiatives like Matsya-6000.
Establishing Centres of Excellence: Create dedicated research hubs and increase funding for deep-ocean science.
Upgrading Governance Framework: Elevate the Department of Ocean Development to a full-fledged ministry for better oversight.
Expediting Project Execution: Implement streamlined approval processes and enforce strict accountability for timely progress.
Recognizing Dual-Use Potential: Leverage deep-sea technology for both scientific research and national security.

“The Blue Chakra in India’s national flag symbolizes the boundless potential of our Blue Economy, driving innovation and prosperity through deep-sea exploration.” – PM Narendra Modi

Deep-sea exploration holds strategic, economic, scientific, & environmental significance. Strengthening Deep-sea research will establish India as a global leader in marine and sustainable utilisation of resources.

Reference: Indian Express | PMFIAS: Deep Ocean Mission

PMF IAS Pathfinder for Mains – Question 133

Q. Discuss the role of deep-sea exploration in enhancing India’s energy security and economic growth within the Blue Economy framework. What are the key challenges associated with deep-sea exploration, and what strategic measures can be suggested to overcome these challenges? (250 Marks) (15 Marks)

Approach

Introduction: Write briefly about the Exclusive Economic Zone and mention the significance of the blue economy.
Body: Discuss the role of deep-sea exploration, mention challenges in deep-sea exploration and suggest strategic measures.
Conclusion: In conclusion summarise the importance of deep-sea exploration and mention the future course of action for blue economy.