Kerala's Staunch Stance Against Deep-Sea Mining

The Kerala Government remains firmly opposed to the Centre's decision to pursue deep-sea mineral mining off its coast. Expressing environmental and financial concerns, the state reiterated its objections through communications and resolutions, emphasizing the potential harm to marine life and fisherfolk livelihoods.

The Kerala Government has reaffirmed its strong opposition to the Centre's deep-sea mineral mining plans off its coast. Clarifying its stance, the state insists there is no ambiguity about its disapproval of the move.

Excise Minister M B Rajesh, speaking in the state Assembly on behalf of Industries and Law Minister P Rajeeve, expressed that the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government has consistently objected to the Centre's initiatives to amend the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002. Despite Kerala's protests, the Centre advanced its amendment agenda.

The state has requested the central government to consider the environmental and socioeconomic implications and has passed a resolution urging the withdrawal of deep-sea mining plans. The destruction of marine ecology and the impact on the livelihoods of fisherfolk are principal concerns. The state differentiates this from its necessary sand removal strategy to prevent floods and calamities.

(With inputs from agencies.)