The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, is engaged in the development of technologies for the sustainable exploration and utilization of ocean resources. NIOT plays a leading role in implementing key national initiatives under the Deep Ocean Mission, including deep-sea mining technologies, underwater systems, ocean observation, marine renewable energy, and coastal engineering.

 

The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), through the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), announced the launch of a National Technothon on 03 August 2026 aimed at developing innovative technologies for the sustainable collection of deep-sea polymetallic nodules. The initiative seeks to accelerate indigenous technological capabilities and foster innovation in support of India's Deep Ocean Mission and the vision of a resilient Blue Economy.

 

Deep-sea polymetallic nodules are an important source of critical minerals such as nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, which are essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, advanced batteries, and high-technology manufacturing. As India advances its exploration activities in the Central Indian Ocean Basin, the development of reliable, energy-efficient, environmentally responsible, and economically viable mining technologies has become a national priority.

The Technothon invites participation from start-ups, industries, MSMEs, academic institutions, research organizations, innovators, and multidisciplinary teams to propose breakthrough engineering solutions capable of operating under extreme deep-ocean conditions at depths ranging from 4,500 to 6,000 metres.

Participants are invited to develop innovative solutions under two challenge categories: 1. Innovative Impact-Less Nodule Collection System with Vertical Riser Transport 2. Innovative Impact-Less Nodule Collection System without Vertical Riser

The Technothon will be conducted in two stages. During Stage I, participants will submit concept notes, preliminary designs, system architecture, novelty assessments, and technology development roadmaps. Shortlisted proposals will advance to Stage II, involving submission of a Detailed Project Report (DPR), engineering designs, simulations, mathematical models, environmental impact assessments, prototype development plans, and commercialization strategies.

Through this initiative, NIOT- MoES aims to bring together the country's scientific community, innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry partners to develop world-class technologies that strengthen India's self-reliance in deep-sea mining and strategic mineral extraction.

The Technothon represents an important step toward creating indigenous, sustainable, and globally competitive technologies for deep-ocean resource development, while reinforcing India's commitment to responsible ocean stewardship and technological leadership.

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