In a significant step toward advancing India’s scientific capabilities and bolstering the blue economy, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, announced that the country is set to launch its first human underwater submersible (Deep-Sea Manned Vehicle) this year.

Speaking at the second meeting of the Mission Steering Committee on the "Deep Ocean Mission", Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the groundbreaking nature of this initiative, which positions India among a select group of six nations with the technological prowess to undertake such an ambitious endeavour.

Union Minister of State, Dr. Jitendra Singh chairing the meeting of  Steering Committee on  Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)  at Prithvi Bhawan, New Delhi.

 The Minister shared that the initial submersible will operate at a depth of up to 500 meters, with a subsequent goal of reaching a staggering depth of 6,000 meters by next year. This achievement will align with the timelines of India’s other landmark missions, including the Gaganyaan space mission, marking a “pleasant coincidence” in the nation’s journey toward scientific excellence.

The Deep Ocean Mission, a flagship program launched under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has been highlighted by him twice from the ramparts of the Red Fort on Independence Day.

Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored its potential to unlock vast resources, including critical minerals, rare metals, and undiscovered marine biodiversity, all of which are crucial for the country’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.

“Through this mission, we are not just exploring the depths of our oceans but also building a robust blue economy that will drive India’s future,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said. The Minister emphasized that the entire initiative is based on indigenous technology, developed and manufactured entirely in India, showcasing the nation’s self-reliance in cutting-edge science.

The mission also aims to enhance understanding of deep-sea ecosystems, contributing to sustainable fisheries and biodiversity conservation. By tapping into these underwater treasures, India is poised to secure long-term benefits for its economy, scientific community, and environmental resilience.

The Deep Ocean Mission faced delays due to the pandemic, but Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed optimism about the progress made, calling it a testament to India’s determination and innovative spirit. He also highlighted the unique dual achievements of the coming years, with one Indian traveling to space and another venturing into the depths of the ocean, signifying the country’s unparalleled advancements in both space and marine exploration.

As India prepares to launch its first human deep-sea submersible, the mission is a beacon of hope for sustainable development and scientific discovery, paving the way for a future where the ocean’s potential is harnessed responsibly and effectively.

The meeting saw the participation of distinguished leaders such as Sri Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance; Sri Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence; Suman K Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog; Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India; Dr. M Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, along with senior officials from various Ministries.

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NKR/PSM

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