New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 79th Independence Day address from the historic Red Fort, unveiled an ambitious new initiative — the National Deep Water Exploration Mission — aimed at tapping into the vast oil and gas reserves beneath India’s seas. Calling the endeavour a modern-day “Samudra Manthan” (churning of the ocean), the Prime Minister framed it as a key pillar in India’s journey towards energy self-reliance.
“We are now also heading towards ‘Samudra Manthan’. Taking this forward, we aim to operate in Mission Mode to explore the oil and gas reserves in the sea. So, India is about to launch the National Deep Water Exploration Mission,” PM Modi announced, underscoring the government’s intent to harness maritime resources to meet the nation’s growing energy demands.
PM Narendra Modi announces India is moving towards ‘Samudra Manthan’ with a National Deep Water Exploration Mission.
The government will work in Mission Mode to explore oil and gas reserves in the sea, marking a major step in energy self-reliance. pic.twitter.com/aRuKYumseS
— Organiser Weekly (@eOrganiser) August 15, 2025
The mission, which will be executed in a dedicated “Mission Mode,” is expected to be a significant step in strengthening India’s energy security. Deep-water exploration offers the potential to diversify energy sources, reduce dependence on imports, and unlock resources that have so far remained untapped.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Earth Sciences highlighted the broader scope of deep-sea exploration, extending beyond hydrocarbons. According to the ministry, it will encompass biodiversity studies, mineral resource mapping, and advanced underwater engineering. These activities are expected to yield benefits in scientific research, technological innovation, and capacity building. Immediate spin-offs include advancements in underwater robotics, subsea infrastructure inspection, and promoting “ocean literacy” — increasing public awareness of ocean ecosystems and their sustainable use.
The mission will also align with India’s Blue Economy strategy, which integrates ocean resources into sustainable economic growth. By exploring deep-sea reserves, the government aims to create new opportunities for the oil, gas, and marine technology sectors while protecting marine biodiversity through responsible exploration practices.
The “Samudra Manthan” reference draws from ancient India, where gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain treasures. In this modern context, PM Modi’s vision frames the oceans as a treasure trove of energy and knowledge, waiting to be unlocked through innovation, technology, and sustainable exploration.
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