India Eyes Pacific Deep-Sea Minerals to Fuel Green Transition

India is set to apply for deep-sea exploration licences in the Pacific Ocean to secure minerals crucial for energy transition technologies. While already holding two licences in the Indian Ocean, India aims to expand its reach amid global competition and regulatory negotiations by the International Seabed Authority.

India is preparing to apply for licences to explore deep-sea minerals in the Pacific Ocean, a move aimed at securing supplies crucial for energy transition technologies, a senior government scientist disclosed to Reuters.

The International Seabed Authority (ISA), backed by the UN, has already issued 31 deep-sea exploration licences, including two to India for the Indian Ocean. However, mining activities are yet to commence as the ISA, consisting of 36 member states, is still finalizing regulations. A council meeting in Jamaica this month will negotiate the latest draft of these mining guidelines.

M. Ravichandran from India's Ministry of Earth Sciences announced that the ministry will collaborate closely with the nation's mining industry to apply next year for Pacific Ocean exploration. Unlike China, which has more advanced seabed mining expertise, India is still developing its technology, with full readiness expected within three to four years. Environmental concerns, however, remain a major challenge, with some experts and countries calling for a halt on deep-sea mining activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)