Context:
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The Kerala Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution opposing the Centre’s move to allow offshore mining along Kerala’s coastline.
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The opposition is linked to amendments in the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, enabling private sector participation in deep-sea mineral extraction.
Key Highlights:
What is Offshore Mining?
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Offshore mining refers to extraction of minerals from the seabed in deep-sea regions.
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Targets include rare earth elements, polymetallic nodules, and other strategic resources.
Government Policy / Legal Framework
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Amendments to the 2002 Act open offshore mining to private players.
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Kerala argues this may undermine ecological safety and local livelihoods.
Environmental Concerns
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Mining could cause severe damage to the fragile marine ecosystem.
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Disturbance of seabed may reduce marine biodiversity and disrupt ecological balance.
Impact on Coastal Economy
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The fishing industry faces threats due to possible depletion of fish stocks.
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Coastal communities dependent on marine resources may suffer livelihood loss.
National Security Dimension
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CM Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted that allowing private access to strategic deep-sea minerals could create geopolitical and security risks.
Relevant Prelims Points:
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Offshore mining involves seabed extraction of strategic minerals.
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Causes: rising demand for rare earths, economic incentives, resource security.
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Benefits: potential boost to mineral supply chain, economic growth.
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Challenges: ecosystem destruction, biodiversity loss, livelihood threats, governance issues.
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Impact: conflict between development priorities and environmental sustainability.
Relevant Mains Points:
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Offshore mining raises key issues of federalism, as coastal states demand consultation.
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Links with blue economy but requires sustainable safeguards.
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Concerns include:
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Weak environmental impact assessments
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Threat to traditional fishing livelihoods
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Strategic mineral security and private access risks
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Way Forward:
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Conduct rigorous scientific environmental assessments before approvals.
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Ensure stakeholder consultation with coastal communities and states.
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Promote alternatives like marine conservation-based blue economy models.
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Balance economic benefits with sustainability and national security needs.
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
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GS 2: Governance, Centre-State relations, policy decision-making
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GS 3: Environment, biodiversity protection, blue economy, resource management
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GS 3 (Economy): Strategic minerals, coastal livelihoods, sustainable development