Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) (Current Events)

Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) (Current Events)

Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) (Current Events)

Why In News:

Recently, the Government of India highlighted the notable achievements made under the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM).

Source: PIB Today, 5 August 2026, 'Deep Ocean Mission'

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2294734&reg=6&lang=1

Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)

The Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at exploring and sustainably utilising deep-sea resources.

It focuses on technological development, resource exploration, climate studies, and pollution control, contributing to the blue economy.

The Samudrayaan Project under DOM plans manned deep-sea missions (1,000–5,500 m) to explore polymetallic nodules rich in manganese, nickel, copper, and cobalt.

The mission has an approved outlay of ₹4,077 crore for 5 years.

Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is the nodal agency.

Other participating bodies include:

Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

Department of Space (DoS)

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)

Key Components of Deep Ocean Mission

* Deep-Sea Mining Technologies: Development of a manned submersible and integrated systems for extracting polymetallic nodules from the Central Indian Ocean Basin.

* Ocean Climate Change Advisory: Creation of observation systems and climate models to provide insights into ocean dynamics and climate change impacts.

* Deep-Sea Biodiversity Conservation: Use of advanced technologies to explore, study, and conserve marine biodiversity for sustainable utilisation.

* Deep Ocean Exploration & Surveys: Identification of mineral-rich zones, including hydrothermal sulphide deposits along mid-ocean ridges.

* Ocean Energy & Freshwater: Development of technologies to harness renewable ocean energy and extract freshwater from seawater.

* Advanced Marine Biology Station: Establishment of a research facility to promote marine biology and biotechnology innovations.