‘Samudrayaan’: India's 'Matsya 6000' submarine paves the way for deep-sea exploration in 'Samudrayaan' Mission

India's foray into exploring the ocean's depths is gaining momentum with the development of the 'Matsya 6000' submarine, a key component of its ambitious 'Samudrayaan' manned submersible mission. Capable of carrying three people to a depth of 6000 feet below the ocean surface, the Matsya 6000 is set to be a groundbreaking achievement for the country's scientific and maritime endeavors. The mission's first phase is scheduled to conclude by 2024, and the vessel is expected to become operational by 2026.

By launching the 'Samudrayaan' mission in October 2021, India joined an exclusive league of nations, including the USA, Russia, Japan, France, and China, possessing advanced submersible capabilities. The mission's primary objective is to develop a self-propelled manned submersible equipped with scientific sensors and instruments, enabling exploration of ocean depths up to 6000 meters. The vessel will be capable of operating for 12 hours and sustain up to 96 hours during emergencies.

The significance of deep-sea exploration cannot be overstated, as about 70% of the Earth's surface is covered by oceans, with a staggering 95% of the deep ocean remaining uncharted. India's vast coastline, bordered by three major oceans, is home to approximately 30% of the population residing in coastal areas that significantly contribute to fisheries, maritime agriculture, tourism, livelihoods, and the blue economy.

The 'Samudrayaan' mission seeks to unravel the mysteries of the deep-sea environment and unlock valuable knowledge about unexplored elements, minerals, and resources hidden beneath the ocean's surface. As part of this ambitious endeavor, India is set to gain insights into the vast and uncharted territory that holds immense potential for scientific discoveries and economic opportunities.

The estimated cost of the entire five-year mission stands at 4077 crore Indian rupees, with around 2823.4 crore rupees allocated for the first phase (2021-2024). With dedicated financial backing and technological advancements, India is poised to embark on an unprecedented journey to explore and comprehend the depths of its surrounding oceans, further strengthening its position in marine research and development.