India is set to launch its first-ever offshore minerals auction, with 10 blocks up for grabs on both the east and west coasts of the country. These blocks will include sand, lime mud, and polymetallic nodules, which are found in all three large bodies of water, the Indian Ocean.
Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has identified polymetallic nodules, also known as manganese nodules, along with sand and gravel in offshore areas. Polymetallic nodules primarily contain iron, manganese, nickel, copper, and cobalt.
Offshore regions serve as reservoirs of sand and gravel, crucial for construction, beach nourishment, and land reclamation projects. Additionally, rare earth elements have also been discovered beneath the sea. India’s coal output has grown significantly, up 5.85% at 411.6 MT in FY25. The nation’s obvious geological.
potential (OGP) is anticipated to expand beyond its existing 6.88 lakh square kilometer notably. Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL), a joint venture of three public-sector undertakings, has started non-invasive exploration on three of the five blocks allocated to it in Argentina.
Mining activities in Argentina are expected to commence in about two years. India in January signed an agreement to acquire five lithium mines in Argentina. KABIL has established a presence in Argentina and Australia and is actively negotiating with several countries abundant in critical minerals, such as Bolivia and Chile. It is likely to establish its presence in Zambia too.
On the domestic front, several public sector undertakings (PSUs) and private firms are actively involved in exploration efforts. The launch of offshore mineral auctions and intensified exploration efforts align with India’s push for securing critical minerals and supporting its growing industrial and energy demands.
In a significant step toward unlocking its blue economy potential, India is set to launch its first-ever offshore mineral auction, marking a new era in resource exploration. According to the Mines Secretary, the auction will facilitate commercial exploration and mining of valuable minerals from India’s offshore territories, boosting domestic production and reducing import dependence.
Key Highlights of the Offshore Mineral Auction
- Scope: The auction will cover polymetallic nodules, rare earth elements, and other valuable offshore minerals. Conducted under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, ensuring transparent and structured mining operations. Companies will participate in a competitive bidding process, securing exploration and mining rights.
- Exploration will focus on regions in the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and other offshore areas. Expected to enhance India’s self-reliance in critical minerals, fueling industrial growth and job creation. India aims to extract minerals such as cobalt, nickel, manganese, and rare earth elements, essential for EV batteries, electronics, and defense technologies.
Strategic Importance of Offshore Mining
- Offshore mining will help India reduce its reliance on China and other countries for rare earth materials. Strict guidelines will ensure minimal ecological impact, with sustainable mining practices. Encourages ostering innovation and global competitiveness. Strengthens India’s maritime resource utilization and contributes to economic expansion in coastal states.
Challenges & Implementation Hurdles
- Need for stringent ecological safeguards to protect marine biodiversity. Offshore mining requires advanced equipment. Coordination between central and state governments for seamless execution. India must ensure strategic positioning in global offshore mining initiatives.
The first offshore mineral auction is a landmark move, signaling India’s intent to With the right policies, technology, and sustainable practices, offshore mining could transform India’s mineral sector, drive economic growth, and enhance global competitiveness. This initiative represents a major leap toward India’s self-sufficiency in critical minerals and a step forward in its blue economy ambitions.
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