T

he Geological Survey of India's (GSI) Marine and Coastal Survey Division (MCSD) is set to host a workshop in Mangaluru on February 15. Titled 'Offshore Exploration: Synergies and Opportunities,' the event aims to facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing among key stakeholders in the offshore domain.

The workshop, to be held at Hotel Ocean Pearl, will bring together governmental bodies, research institutions, academia, and industry players. V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Union Ministry of Mines, is slated to deliver the inaugural address, with Janardan Prasad, Director General of GSI, also in attendance.

Central to the discussions will be amendments in the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development & Regulation) Act, 2002, the recent transfer of 35 offshore blocks from GSI to the Ministry of Mines for auction, and the drafting of guidelines for private exploration agencies in offshore exploration. These deliberations aim to enhance and streamline private sector participation in offshore exploration activities.

The workshop's agenda encompasses various topics, including an overview of GSI's offshore activities, government initiatives promoting exploration and exploitation, collaborative frameworks for data sharing, and sustainable practices for offshore mineral exploration. The goal is to establish effective mechanisms for data sharing and collaboration, fostering an environment conducive to joint research initiatives and technical expertise exchange.

Key discussions will focus on promoting innovation and exploration in offshore mineral resources. Presentations from leading experts will cover aspects from data acquisition to environmental considerations, providing participants with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the offshore exploration sector.

The recent amendments to the Offshore Areas Mineral Act are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the regulatory landscape for offshore exploration. The workshop will serve as a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on these changes and understand their implications for the industry.

With the recent handover of offshore blocks for auction, the workshop is timely, offering a space for industry players to strategize and position themselves for potential opportunities. Private sector participation in offshore exploration is vital for unlocking the full potential of the country's mineral resources beneath the seabed.

By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, research institutions, and industry players, the workshop aims to pave the way for a more coordinated and efficient approach to offshore exploration. The outcome is expected to drive advancements, technological innovation, and sustainable practices within the sector.

As Mangaluru becomes the focal point for discussions on offshore exploration, the workshop holds promise for shaping the future trajectory of India's engagement with its maritime mineral resources. The collaborative efforts of stakeholders, guided by insights from the workshop, are anticipated to contribute significantly to the development of the offshore exploration sector in the country.