India Signs 15-Year Polymetallic Sulphides Exploration Contract with ISA in Carlsberg Ridge
SDG 14: Life Below Water | SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Institutions: Ministry of Earth Sciences
On 15 September 2025, India and the International Seabed Authority (ISA) executed a 15-year exploration contract for polymetallic sulphides (PMS) covering 10,000 km² in parts of the Carlsberg Ridge in the Indian Ocean. This marks India’s third ISA exploration contract, and its second specifically for polymetallic sulphides. With this agreement, India becomes the first Member State to hold two PMS contracts and the country with the largest area under PMS exploration among ISA members.
India’s application (approved under ISA regulations) includes environmental safeguards. The plan covers marine scientific research, environmental impact assessment, commitments to protect the marine environment, and adherence to UNCLOS (Law of the Sea) and the ISA’s implementation agreement.
This contract positions India more centrally in securing critical minerals such as copper, nickel, cobalt which are vital for clean energy, electronics, and advanced manufacturing chains. It also deepens India’s role in global maritime governance under ISA, raising the need for strong technical capacity, responsible environmental oversight, and transparent regulatory regimes.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can India ensure that the exploration proceeds with rigorous baseline environmental monitoring, community engagement (for coastal/interested states), and development of technologies that minimize ecological disturbance in deep-sea environments?
Follow the full news here:
https://www.isa.org.jm/news/signing-of-the-polymetallic-sulphides-contract-between-the-international-seabed-authority-and-the-government-of-india/