Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, announced today that India has been officially designated as a “Pioneer Investor” by the International Seabed Authority (ISA), which is headquartered in Jamaica. This recognition highlights the world’s recognition of India’s Blue Economy resources.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Blue Economy has been given high priority, as seen by PM Modi’s references to India’s Deep Sea Mission in his Independence Day address for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022. The ISA and the Ministry of Earth Sciences also exchanged PMN (Polymetallic Nodules) exploration extension contracts in the presence of Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the importance of India’s vast maritime interests and the Blue Economy’s vital relationship with the country’s economic growth. The Ministry of Earth Sciences is conducting a PMN exploration program through its nodal institute, the National Institute of Ocean Technology, and other associated institutes to demonstrate pilot mining at the Test Mining Site.
The Secretary-General of the ISA, Michael Lodge, expressed that India is in a good position to move ahead in the field of energy transition and is looking forward to working with the Ministry of Earth Sciences to further cooperation. The ultimate objective of the Blue Economy is to promote smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth in the Indian Ocean region’s maritime economic activities and support sustainable harnessing of ocean resources, research, and development
