As per the update till July 2024, there have been many protests and concerns regarding deep sea mining in India, especially regarding environmental impacts. Deep sea mining means extracting minerals from the ocean floor, which can harm marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Here are some major points:
Environmental concerns: Environmental activists and organizations have drawn attention to the harm it is causing to marine life, including destruction of habitats and long-term ecological damage. The deep sea environment is fragile and not fully understood, making it difficult to predict the consequences of mining.
Local communities: In some areas, local communities dependent on fishing and marine resources have opposed Deep Sea Mining projects, fearing degradation of their livelihoods and natural environment.
Government and regulatory response: The Government of India is exploring Deep Sea Mining for valuable minerals such as polymetallic nodules (which contain metals such as manganese, nickel, copper and cobalt). However, debate continues over the need for strict regulations and environmental safeguards.
International Context: India is also involved in international discussions on deep sea mining through the International Seabed Authority (ISA) which regulates mining in international waters. The global community is demanding a precautionary approach to avoid irreversible damage to the ocean.
Recent demonstrations: Demonstrations have particularly taken place in India’s coastal areas, where activists and local communities have organized awareness campaigns and protests. These protests demand a halt to mining activities until a comprehensive environmental impact assessment is conducted.
For the latest and most detailed information, it is advisable to refer to recent news sources or reports from environmental organizations. If you have access to the internet, you can get the latest updates about demonstrations and developments related to deep sea mining in India.
