From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Seabed Authority (ISA)
Why in the News?
The 30th Session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has officially commenced in Kingston, Jamaica, on March 17, 2025.
About the International Seabed Authority (ISA)
- ISA is an autonomous international organization created under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1994 Agreement relating to Part XI of the UNCLOS.
- It regulates and manages mineral-resource activities in the “Area”—the seabed and ocean floor beyond national jurisdictions.
- It is headquartered in Kingston, Jamaica
- It has 168 Member States, including India, and the European Union
- Mandate:
- Regulate exploration and exploitation of deep-sea minerals.
- Protect the marine environment from harmful effects of seabed activities.
- Encourage marine scientific research and promote the sustainable use of oceans.
- The ISA manages about 54% of the world’s oceans, ensuring activities are carried out for the benefit of all humankind and to protect the marine environment.
Role in Regulating Deep-Sea Mining
The ISA is responsible for enforcing the Mining Code, which governs all mineral activities in the International Seabed Area. It includes:
- Regulation of Exploration: Grants exploration licenses for assessing mineral deposits in deep-sea areas, ensuring scientifically responsible activities.
- Environmental Protection: Sets environmental standards and ensures impact assessments before mining starts.
- Development of Mining Code: Continuously updates the Mining Code to address scientific, technological, and environmental concerns.
- Oversight and Compliance: Monitors activities of contractors and member states, ensuring regulatory compliance and environmental safeguards.
India and ISA
- In January 2024, India submitted two exploration applications in the Indian Ocean for:
- Polymetallic sulphides in the Carlsberg Ridge.
- Cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts in the Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount.
- India holds two active exploration contracts for polymetallic nodules and sulphides in the Central Indian Ocean Basin and Ridge.
- India seeks access to critical minerals for energy transition and technological growth, balancing economic needs with sustainable practices.
- India actively participates in Mining Code negotiations, aligning its actions with international legal standards and environmental protocols.
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