Aug 04 : Following the success of its lunar landing, India is charting a new course with the ambitious Samudrayaan mission. The country is gearing up for a remarkable journey beneath the waves, as it prepares for a research expedition manned by three scientists, venturing to a depth of 6,000 meters.
The Samudrayaan initiative was unveiled by Union Geosciences Minister Kiren Rijiju in a written response. At the core of this endeavor lies the Samudran project, marking India’s first-ever manned undersea mission. The primary objective of this mission is to explore the mysteries of the deep ocean, shedding light on hidden resources and diverse marine life forms. Additionally, the expedition is committed to protecting the delicate marine ecosystem while embarking on its quest for discovery.
This venture aligns with India’s broader mission to unravel the secrets of the ocean, in line with the government’s Blue Economy policy. The policy aims to harness the vast potential of marine resources, driving economic growth, job creation, and improving livelihoods while ensuring the preservation of the ocean’s vitality.
The stage is set for the grand maritime odyssey scheduled for 2026, led by the pioneering vessel named ‘Matsya 6000,’ masterfully crafted by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) in Chennai. The vessel boasts impressive capabilities, with the ability to withstand the extreme pressures of the abyssal depths for up to 12 hours and up to 96 hours in dire emergencies, showcasing human ingenuity and a strong focus on safety.
Marine scientists eagerly anticipate unlocking the enigmas of the uncharted deep during this mission. The projected cost of the Samudrayaan mission over five years is estimated at Rs 4,077 crore. India also welcomes collaboration from global partners, including the USA, Russia, France, Japan, and China, who are poised to contribute their expertise to this extraordinary undersea odyssey.
