Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, has set ambitious goals for the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) scientists: to complete the initial harbor trial of Matsyayaan 6000, capable of diving 6000 meters deep into the ocean, by September 2024. Matsya 6000 is India’s first manned submersible which will carry three people to a depth of 6,000 metres to study deep sea resources being built under the Samudrayaan project. The Minister also emphasised the need to conclude all subsequent trials of this advanced deep-sea exploration technology by 2026.
Speaking at a meeting here focused on the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ 100-day Action Plan, Dr. Singh underscored the role of the Mission in advancing ocean sciences, exploring marine flora and fauna, and conserving biodiversity. The Minister said that India is poised to become the sixth nation globally to embark on its own Deep Sea Mission, a feat achieved by very few nations.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also appreciated the NIOT scientists 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 the 4hr descent of the Yaan.
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.”
“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.
