Description

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Picture Courtesy: THEHINDU

Context

India signed a 15-year exploration contract with the International Seabed Authority (ISA) for polymetallic sulphides (PMS) in the Carlsberg Ridge, marking the world's first such licence in this region.

Read all about: SAMUDRAYAAN MISSION l INDIA'S BLUE ECONOMY l DEEP SEA MISSION l INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY

Highlights of the Carlsberg Ridge Exploration Contract

Contract Scope

The Carlsberg Ridge is a 3,00,000-sq km stretch that lies in the Indian Ocean. It forms the boundary between the Indian and Arabian tectonic plates, extending from near Rodrigues Island to the Owen fracture zone.

Exploration targets polymetallic sulphur nodules rich in manganese, cobalt, nickel, copper—essential for batteries, renewables, and electronics.

Significance

First global licence for polymetallic sulphides; overall India's third ISA contract , second for sulphides, granting exclusive rights for surveys, mapping, and environmental assessments over 15 years.

Previous Contracts

2002 polymetallic nodules in Central Indian Ocean Basin (75,000 sq km, expires 2027); 2016 polymetallic sulphides in Indian Ocean Ridge (expires 2031). India now holds the largest ISA-allocated area.

What Are Polymetallic Sulphides?

Polymetallic sulphides are mineral deposits formed near hydrothermal vents on mid-ocean ridges, containing high concentrations of base metals (copper, zinc) and critical minerals (cobalt, nickel).

Economic Significance: India imports 95% of critical minerals; domestic sourcing could reduce costs and support net-zero 2070 goals, creating jobs in subsea tech and processing.

Geopolitical Edge: Secures supply chains amid rising demand; acts as a "shield" against rivals.

Environmental and Technological Challenges

Impacts

Disturbance to chemosynthetic communities (e.g., vent-dependent species); sediment plumes could smother biodiversity, release toxins, and alter ocean chemistry; noise/light pollution affects migration.

India's Mitigation

Deep Ocean Mission (₹4,077 crore) funds eco-friendly tech like Matsya-6000 submersible (6 km depth) and Varaha mining system; emphasizes low-impact harvesting.

Global Debate

Calls for pause due to gaps in impact studies; India balances via ISA reforms for sustainability.

Way Forward: Balancing Ambition with Sustainability

Technological Boost: Accelerate Deep Ocean Mission for indigenous robotics; invest in processing hubs.

Regulatory Advocacy: Push ISA for binding environmental standards and Global South equity at COP30/ISA sessions.

Collaborative Models: Form Indo-Pacific alliances (e.g., Quad+ for tech-sharing) to counter China.

Sustainable Practices: Mandate zero-plume mining and biodiversity offsets; integrate with National Critical Minerals Mission for diversified sourcing.

Conclusion

India’s Carlsberg Ridge licence makes it a deep-sea pioneer, securing critical minerals and strategic autonomy while success depends on ISA reforms, green technology, and sustainable practices.

Source: THEHINDU

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Consider the following statements:

Carlsberg Ridge is a mid-oceanic ridge located in the Indian Ocean.
Polymetallic sulphides found here are rich in nickel, cobalt, and copper.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation:

Statement 1 is Correct: The Carlsberg Ridge is a mid-oceanic ridge in the Indian Ocean.

Statement 2 is Correct: Polymetallic sulphides are deposits rich in critical metals like nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Polymetallic sulphides are deposits of valuable metals like copper, zinc, gold, and silver found in deep-sea hydrothermal vents. These minerals are crucial for manufacturing components for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and high-tech industries.

The Carlsberg Ridge is a mid-oceanic ridge and divergent plate boundary in the northwest Indian Ocean, specifically in the Arabian Sea, covering a 300,000 sq km area.

The ISA is an autonomous international organization established under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to regulate all mineral-related activities in the deep seabed beyond national jurisdiction for the benefit of all humankind.