'Deep Ocean Mission': India To Launch First Human Underwater Submersible This Year, Aiming For 6,000-Metre Depths By 2026

India is set to launch its first human underwater submersible (deep-sea manned vehicle) this year, according to Union Minister Jitendra Singh.

Speaking at the second meeting of the Mission Steering Committee on the "Deep Ocean Mission", Singh on Thursday (23 January) emphasised the groundbreaking nature of this initiative, which positions India among a select group of six nations with the technological prowess to undertake such an ambitious endeavour.

The minister shared that the initial submersible will operate at a depth of up to 500 metres, with a subsequent goal of reaching a staggering depth of 6,000 metres by next year.

Singh underscored its potential to unlock vast resources, including critical minerals, rare metals, and undiscovered marine biodiversity, all of which are crucial for the country’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.

“Through this mission, we are not just exploring the depths of our oceans but also building a robust blue economy that will drive India’s future,” Singh said.

The minister emphasised that the entire initiative is based on indigenous technology, developed and manufactured entirely in India, showcasing the nation’s self-reliance in cutting-edge science.

The mission also aims to enhance understanding of deep-sea ecosystems, contributing to sustainable fisheries and biodiversity conservation.

By tapping into these underwater treasures, India is poised to secure long-term benefits for its economy, scientific community, and environmental resilience.

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