India’s Varaha-3 collects essential metals in the Andaman Sea

The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has begun major exploratory testing in the Andaman Sea using the Varaha-3, a specialized seabed mining machine. These tests, which took place at a depth of 1,193 meters, are part of India’s broader initiative to explore and utilize the ocean’s resources responsibly. The Geological Survey of India earlier surveyed the test sites and identified them as potential hotspots for valuable mineral resources, especially polymetallic nodules.

Successful collection of nodules

During the tests, Varaha-3 effectively collected polymetallic nodules ranging in size from 60 to 120 mm. These nodules contain essential metals such as nickel, cobalt and copper, which are vital to several industries, especially those focused on renewable energy and electric vehicle production. The successful collection represents a remarkable advancement in India’s capabilities in deep-sea mining.

Sustainable practices and future prospects

The design of Varaha-3 emphasizes efficiency and minimization of environmental impact, in line with India’s commitment to sustainable management of ocean resources. As part of the Deep Ocean Mission, the Indian government has made significant investments in developing advanced technology for deep-sea exploration. This includes an integrated mining system focused in improving the efficiency of nodule extraction and transport.

Closing remarks

These exploratory trials not only demonstrate the technical prowess of the Varaha-3, but also pave the way for potential commercial mining operations in the future. With continued research and innovation, India is positioning itself as a leader in the sustainable extraction of seabed resources, contributing to global demand for critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies.