Kerala Passes Resolution Against Offshore Mining, Pg 6

What is Offshore Mining?

• Offshore mining involves extracting minerals and resources from the seabed in deep-sea regions.
• It targets rare earth elements, polymetallic nodules, and other valuable minerals.
• While it offers economic benefits, it poses risks to marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and coastal economies.

Key Highlights:

• Kerala’s Opposition to Offshore Mining:
  • The Kerala Assembly unanimously passed a resolution opposing the Centre’s decision to permit offshore mining along Kerala’s coast.
  • Concerns raised over amendments to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, which allows private sector participation in deep-sea mineral extraction.
• Environmental & Economic Concerns:
  • Mining activities could lead to destruction of the fragile marine ecosystem.
  • Fishing industry at risk due to depletion of fish stocks and marine biodiversity.
  • Experts warned of severe ecological consequences from seabed disturbances.
• Threat to National Security:
  • CM Pinarayi Vijayan stressed that granting private companies access to strategic minerals in deep-sea regions could pose security risks.
  • The resolution urged the Centre to reconsider the policy due to its economic and geopolitical implications.

Analysis & Way Forward:

• The Centre must balance economic interests with environmental sustainability and local livelihoods.
• A scientific assessment of environmental risks should be conducted before large-scale approvals.
• India could explore sustainable alternatives like marine conservation-based blue economy initiatives.

Mains Mock Question:

"Critically analyze the impact of offshore mining on marine ecosystems and coastal economies. Should India promote deep-sea mining despite environmental concerns?"