NEW DELHI: India is the 6th country in the world to launch “Deep Sea Mission” said Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy,Department of Space,MoS Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. 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 the “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. The Union Minister lauded ‘National institute of ocean technology (NIOT)’s efforts for MatsyaYaan(6000) which is supposed to go6000m deep in the sea. Taking stock of the progress he directed to complete the 1st stage of mission harbor trail (40-50m) deep by September 2024. And carry on with the 2nd stage (500m), 3rd stage (2000m)till 6000 m 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. “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. 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 were present at the meeting.
