Deep ocean mission (DOM)

Deep ocean mission (DOM)

Part of: Prelims and GS-III Science and Technology

Context: India will soon scour the ocean bed to unravel the mysteries of the origins of life as scientists are set to travel up to 6,000 m below the sea surface under a deep ocean mission (DOM).

• Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences

Key takeaways 

• Initially, the Rs. 4,077-crore mission will entail scientists travelling to a depth of 500 m to test various technologies being developed for the purpose before taking a deeper dive into the unknown.
• The DOM will also help India map the ocean bed, which is a rich source for metals and minerals.
• The mission will help scientists identify and demarcate resource-rich areas which could be exploited later when suitable technology is available for deep sea mining.
• The exploration studies of minerals will pave the way for commercial exploitation in the near future as and when such a code is evolved by the International Seabed Authority.
• This mission is also directed towards development in marine biology which will provide job opportunities in Indian industries.

News Source: TH