ScienceIndia is preparing the ground for deep-sea mining. The real prize is critical minerals
A government-industry workshop linked ocean technology with supply security for nickel, cobalt, copper and manganese.
THE INDIQA Research DeskPublished 9 Sept 2026Updated 12 Sept 20262 min read
The Ministry of Earth Sciences and the National Institute of Ocean Technology convened an industry outreach workshop on deep-sea mining and its strategic importance. The focus was on building technology, financing and policy pathways around critical minerals used in clean energy, electronics and advanced manufacturing.
Commercial mining of polymetallic nodules in international waters still depends on rules being developed through the International Seabed Authority. That makes this both a technology story and a global-governance story. India’s interest reflects a wider effort to reduce exposure to concentrated mineral supply chains while expanding the Blue Economy.
CIVIL SERVICES VIEWStudy this development
GS-IIGS-IIICritical minerals, Blue Economy and ocean governancePrelims: HighMains: High
Why this matters
A government-industry workshop linked ocean technology with supply security for nickel, cobalt, copper and manganese.
Key facts
- The International Seabed Authority regulates mineral-related activities in the international seabed Area.
Key terms
- deep-sea mining
- critical minerals
- ISA
- polymetallic nodules
Arguments, challenges and policy responses
- Critical-mineral security versus marine environmental risk
- India’s technology strategy for the Blue Economy
India’s context
Critical minerals are increasingly important for India’s energy transition and advanced manufacturing ambitions.
Practice question
Discuss the opportunities and governance challenges associated with deep-sea mining.
Revision summary
- The International Seabed Authority regulates mineral-related activities in the international seabed Area.
- Critical-mineral security versus marine environmental risk
- India’s technology strategy for the Blue Economy
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