New Delhi, The Ministry of Mines organized a workshop on Offshore Mining today in New Delhi, with esteemed guests including Secretary Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary Dr. M. Ravichandran from the Ministry of Earth Sciences, and Additional Secretary Shri Sanjay Lohiya. Attendees comprised officials from Central Government Ministries, State Governments, PSUs, mining companies, potential bidders, and industry associations.
Secretary Shri V.L. Kantha Rao underscored the significance of offshore mining in bolstering industrial growth, employment, and energy security. He assured a positive outlook for offshore mining, highlighting strategic initiatives by the Ministry and encouraging start-ups and private firms to develop technology. Furthermore, he welcomed suggestions for draft rules to facilitate ease of doing business and promote offshore mining in India, urging industry players to prepare for upcoming auctions.
Dr. M. Ravichandran emphasized sustainable and environmentally friendly offshore mining, urging collaboration and knowledge sharing to position India as a pioneer in the field.
Officials outlined the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 (OAMDR Act), and draft rules available for stakeholder consultation on the Ministry of Mines website. Identified offshore mineral blocks in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone, including lime-mud, polymetallic nodules, and construction sand, will soon be auctioned.
Expert sessions by Geological Survey of India, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and other institutes provided insights into offshore exploration technology and industry expectations. Domestic and international participants engaged actively, contributing valuable insights. The workshop concluded with a Q&A session, addressing queries from physical and virtual attendees.
