PM Modi Announces National Deepwater Exploration Mission, Pushes for Critical Mineral Development

New Delhi: In a historic achievement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India has reached its ambitious goal of generating 50% of its electricity from clean energy sources  five years ahead of the 2030 deadline. This milestone, celebrated during the 79th Independence Day address from the Red Fort, places India among the global leaders in renewable energy adoption.

The target, once seen as challenging, was met through a coordinated national effort involving large-scale solar and wind projects, hydroelectric power expansion, green hydrogen initiatives, and active participation from industries and citizens alike. The Prime Minister credited the success to “the spirit and determination of 1.4 billion Indians” who embraced sustainable practices and innovations.

With this goal achieved, the government is preparing for the next big leap  the National Deepwater Exploration Mission. This mission will explore the vast resources beneath India’s oceans, including critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies, electronics, and defence manufacturing. These minerals, such as cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, are crucial for the production of batteries, wind turbines, and other green technologies.

PM Modi stressed that this mission is not just about resource extraction but also about technological advancement, marine conservation, and strengthening India’s strategic self-reliance. “Our seas hold the key to the nation’s next wave of growth,” he said, adding that India will adopt sustainable deep-sea mining practices that protect marine ecosystems.

Analysts say the twin milestones early clean energy achievement and the launch of deep-sea exploration  signal India’s determination to not just meet but surpass its development goals, positioning the country as a global leader in both sustainability and strategic resource management.