Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, announced that India will become the sixth country in the world to launch its own Deep Sea Mission. The announcement was made at a meeting in New Delhi to examine the progress of the Ministry of Earth Sciences' 100-day Action Plan.
Strategic Importance & Technological Advancements in India's Deep Sea Mission
Expressing his pride in this accomplishment, Dr. Singh emphasized the strategic importance of the Deep Sea Mission for India's scientific and economic landscape. Dr. Singh emphasized that the Deep Sea Mission extends beyond merely exploring minerals. He highlighted that the initiative also focuses on advancing ocean sciences, studying marine biodiversity, and undertaking conservation efforts.
One of the cornerstones of the mission is the development of the Matsya 6000, a submersible vehicle capable of reaching depths of 6000 meters. The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has been instrumental in this endeavor. Dr. Singh directed that the first stage of the harbor trials for Matsya 6000 be completed by September 2024, with subsequent trials to be finalized by 2026.
The mission's technological advancements are noteworthy. NIOT, in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has developed a robust titanium hull capable of withstanding extreme underwater pressure. Additionally, there is ongoing development of 'Self-Floatation' technology, which will allow the submersible to remain submerged for up to 72 hours in emergency situations. Progress has also been made on achieving a four-hour descent time for the submersible.
Dr. Singh underscored the multifaceted benefits of the Deep Sea Mission. This initiative has the potential to significantly boost India's economy, as per him. The mission is expected to enhance deep-sea exploration, contribute to the study of marine flora and fauna, and enable the commercial exploitation of rare earth metals and polymetallic nodules on the Indian seabed.
In his address, Dr. Singh also highlighted the importance of developing indigenous technology to reduce India's dependence on foreign expertise. He encouraged scientists and officials to continue their efforts in advancing India's capabilities in ocean exploration.
The meeting was attended by Dr. M Ravi Chandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, along with other senior officials, reflecting the high level of coordination and commitment to the mission's success.
As preparations for the Deep Sea Mission advance, India stands on the brink of joining an exclusive group of nations with the capability to explore and harness the resources of the deep sea.
