PANAJI
Pointing to the increasing demand for metals from the deep sea, the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), through the Central government, is considering strengthening bilateral partnerships with littoral nations for a better understanding of the Indian Ocean region.
In line with the contract signed between the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the International Seabed Authority (ISA) for the exploration of polymetallic sulphides (PMS) in the Central and South-western Indian ridges, NIO held a training programme through the NCPOR.
Speaking on the occasion, NIO Director Sunil Kumar Singh emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral partnerships with littoral nations for a better understanding of the Indian Ocean region.
He highlighted the increasing demand for metals from the deep sea due to diminishing terrestrial deposits, especially those of commercial interest from the unexplored unique ecosystems on the ocean floor.
