India to Start Deep Sea Mission in September 2024

     New Delhi, June 18, 2024: India is the 6th country to have its own Deep Sea Mission and the first Stage of harbour trail (40-50m) deep of deep sea mission planned by September 2024, Union Minister for Earth Science and Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said.

     “Mission is not limited to mineral exploration but development of ocean sciences and exploration of flora and fauna and conservation of marine biodiversity,” Dr Jitendra Singh said.

      “Deep Sea Mission has the potential to contribute greatly to the overall growth of Indian economy,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighting the multi-fold impact this mission will have on Flora and fauna, deep sea exploration, rare earth metals commercial exploitation, exploration and discovery of metals and poly metallic nodules in the Indian Sea bed.

     Chairing a meeting to discuss the 100 days Action Plan of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh expressed pride and happiness on the progress of Deep Sea mission and India being among the very few nations to achieve this feat. 

     He asked institutes to focus on achieving a resilient blue-economy to empower people dependent on the ocean and its energy for livelihood. On drawing contours of the deep sea mission he said “Mission is not limited to mineral exploration but development of ocean sciences and exploration of flora and fauna and conservation of marine biodiversity etc.”

     Union Minister lauded ‘National institute of ocean technology (NIOT)’s efforts for the development of Matsyayaan 6000 which could go 6000 meter deep into the Ocean. Taking stock of the progress, he directed officials to complete the 1st stage of harbour trail by September 2024. And finish subsequent trials by 2026.

     Dr. Jitendra Singh appreciated them for working in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to successfully bear extreme pressure by developing ‘Titanium Hull’. He also enquired on the development of’ Self –Floatation’ technology to deal with emergency conditions and be submerged for 72 hours. Some of the highlights were the progress on 4hr descent of the Yaan. 

     He also directed and motivated scientists and officials to develop indigenous technology and capability and reduce India’s dependence.

     Dr. M Ravi Chandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences along with other senior officials was present in the meeting.