India is ramping up its deep-sea exploration efforts in search of critical minerals essential for clean energy and battery technology. With increasing competition among global powers for these resources, India’s push to secure valuable minerals from the ocean floor could have a significant impact on the future of renewable energy and technology development.
The UN-affiliated International Seabed Authority (ISA) has issued exploration licenses to countries like India, China, and Russia to extract minerals such as cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese from the ocean depths. As countries like India strive to meet renewable energy targets and reduce carbon emissions, the demand for these critical minerals is only expected to grow.
India’s applications for new exploration licenses signal its commitment to staying competitive in the race for deep-sea resources. By expanding its scientific exploration efforts and partnering with countries like Russia for mining technologies, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global quest for critical minerals.
However, environmental concerns loom over deep-sea mining, with some countries calling for a temporary halt due to the lack of information about the potential risks to marine ecosystems. As the World Bank projects a fivefold increase in mineral extraction by 2050 to meet clean energy demands, balancing the need for critical minerals with environmental conservation remains a challenge.
Geopolitical tensions, especially regarding China’s dominant position in mineral processing, have further fueled the race for critical minerals. The US and its western allies have launched initiatives like the Minerals Security Partnership to ensure a responsible and secure supply chain for critical minerals.
India’s deep-sea mining ambitions reflect a broader global trend towards securing renewable energy resources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. As the energy transition accelerates, the competition for critical minerals is likely to intensify, shaping the future of clean energy technologies and international relations.
