India’s ambitious Deep Sea Mission has achieved a major breakthrough with the discovery of an active hydrothermal vent 4,500 meters below the Indian Ocean. This milestone, announced by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), highlights the potential of deep-sea exploration and its role in advancing the blue economy.
Thamban Meloth, Director of NCPOR, emphasized the importance of capturing visual images of the vent, saying, “Seeing is believing.” This discovery builds confidence among scientists and reinforces the mission’s ₹4,000-crore investment in exploring minerals, life forms, and the ocean’s role in climate change.
The vent, located along the Central and Southern Indian Ocean Ridges, was identified using an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV). This advanced robotic instrument navigated the rugged terrain to capture high-resolution images and data.
Treasure troves of minerals and unique ecosystems Hydrothermal vents are significant for two reasons:
Mineral deposits they produce rare metals like nickel, manganese, and cobalt, vital for modern technologies and clean energy solutions.
Unique life forms these vents support ecosystems that thrive on chemosynthesis, a process where organisms convert inorganic chemicals into energy without sunlight.
“This discovery is like finding a needle in a haystack, given the vast and challenging underwater terrain,” explained Meloth.
The extreme conditions of the Indian Ocean’s depths, ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 meters, present challenges such as complete darkness, strong currents, and unpredictable weather. Balaji Ramakrishnan, NIOT Director, noted that this success comes after four expeditions over two years, showcasing India’s growing expertise in deep-sea exploration.
The findings not only provide insights into marine ecosystems but also open doors for studying life forms in extreme environments. These studies could enhance understanding of life’s origins and contribute to advancements in biotechnology.
As India builds a new ship for deep-sea surveys, set to be operational in three years, scientists remain optimistic about uncovering more secrets hidden in the ocean depths. “This is just the beginning,” Meloth said, urging continued support for sustained exploration efforts.
