EnvironmentSaturday, 19 September 2026·The Hindu - Environment
India’s deep-sea exploration: ISA contracts, 95,000 sq km area and 366 million tonnes of nodules
India holds three ISA exploration contracts over 95,000 sq km and is developing Deep Ocean Mission technologies such as MATSYA-6000 and deep-sea mining systems.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In September 2026, India’s deep-sea exploration profile included three International Seabed Authority (ISA) contracts across about 95,000 square kilometres in the Central Indian Ocean Basin, Central Indian Ridge and Carlsberg Ridge.
Key specifics
- The exploration area covers about 95,000 square kilometres in the international seabed region.
- India’s seabed studies have identified an estimated 366 million tonnes of polymetallic nodules.
- The nodules contain nickel, copper, cobalt and manganese.
- Under the Deep Ocean Mission, India is developing MATSYA-6000 and underwater robotics.
- NIOT tested a mining machine at about 5,270 metres depth and biodiversity surveys covered 19 seamounts.
Exam lens
Question type: environment and science-tech current affairs. Key facts: ISA, 95,000 sq km, 366 million tonnes, MATSYA-6000, 5,270 metres. TNPSC one-liner: Deep-sea mining is important for minerals, but exam questions often focus on environmental risks and India’s exploration capacity.