India is poised to achieve self-sufficiency in nickel and cobalt, critical components for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, by tapping into vast mineral deposits in the Indian Ocean. Michael W. Lodge, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), highlighted that these resources could significantly bolster India’s position in the global deep-sea mining sector.
The Indian government’s “Deep Ocean Mission” aims to explore and extract these minerals, potentially reducing dependence on imports and enhancing domestic production capabilities. This initiative aligns with India’s broader strategy to strengthen its EV manufacturing sector and secure a sustainable supply of essential materials.
In addition to deep-sea mining, India is investing in the development of technologies for seabed exploration and mineral extraction. The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has been instrumental in advancing these technologies, including the development of submersible vehicles capable of reaching significant ocean depths.
Furthermore, India is engaging in international collaborations to enhance its capabilities in critical mineral extraction. In October 2024, India and the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on critical battery mineral supply chains, focusing on minerals such as lithium and cobalt.
