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UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 28th March 2025

Home / UPSC / Current Affairs / India needs to develop its deep-sea capabilities

India needs to develop its deep-sea capabilities

Why in News?

India’s deep-sea exploration efforts, led by the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) and Samudrayaan Project, are crucial for economic growth, strategic security, and scientific advancements, especially in light of global deep-sea developments.

India needs to develop its deep-sea capabilities

Introduction

  • India’s focus on developing deep-sea capabilities has gained momentum with the Matsya-6000 submersible under the Samudrayaan Project, part of the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM).
  • As deep-sea exploration becomes crucial for economic, strategic, and security reasons, India must enhance its underwater technology to compete with global leaders like China, the US, and Japan.

Deep-Sea Exploration: Why It Matters

  • Economic Potential
    • The deep sea holds vast mineral resources, including polymetallic nodules, gas hydrates, and rare earth elements.
    • These resources can fuel India’s blue economy, reducing dependence on imports.
  • Strategic Importance
    • Undersea cables carry 95% of the world’s internet and financial data. Securing them is vital for national security.
    • The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extends 200 nautical miles (370 km) from India’s coastline, requiring surveillance and resource protection.
    • China’s deep-sea fleet and cable-cutting technology pose potential threats to undersea infrastructure.
  • Scientific Advancements
    • Deep-sea mapping aids in climate change research and disaster prediction.
    • Enhancing underwater domain awareness (UDA) helps in maritime security and exploration.

Challenges in Deep-Sea Development

  • Technological Constraints
    • Extreme water pressure (380 times atmospheric pressure in India’s EEZ) necessitates advanced materials and submersible design.
    • Low-frequency sound technologies like VLF and ELF require extensive research and funding.
  • Financial and Institutional Gaps
    • Unlike China, India lacks dedicated deep-sea research institutions and large-scale funding.
    • Dependence on foreign technology hampers self-reliance in deep-sea exploration.
  • Security and Infrastructure Challenges
    • India lacks advanced submarine rescue and deep-sea combat capabilities.
    • Underwater cable maintenance and protection mechanisms are still underdeveloped.

India’s Deep-Sea Initiatives

  • Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)
    • Launched in 2018 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
    • Focuses on resource exploration, biodiversity studies, and undersea infrastructure development.
  • Samudrayaan Project
    • Development of Matsya-6000, India’s first manned deep-sea submersible.
    • Capable of diving 6,000 meters for mineral and biodiversity research.
  • Strengthening Ocean Research and Defence
    • Plans to upgrade the Department of Ocean Development to a full-fledged ministry.
    • Need for a mission-mode approach with quick approvals and high accountability.

Way Forward

  • Boost R&D and Funding: Establish centres of excellence in deep-sea science and engineering.
  • Strengthen Security Measures: Develop anti-submarine capabilities and real-time monitoring of deep-sea activities.
  • Enhance Global Collaboration: Partner with France, Japan, and the US for technological expertise.

Conclusion

India’s deep-sea ambitions are vital for its economic security, scientific progress, and strategic defence. A well-funded, mission-driven approach will ensure India emerges as a global leader in underwater exploration and security.

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  1. Pingback: Findings of a new study about the long-term impact of deep-sea mining - JICE IAS

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