1. What is the PRITHVI scheme?
The PRITHVI scheme, led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in India, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at bolstering research across various domains of Earth sciences, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, and biosphere. This scheme consolidates multiple ongoing research projects under one umbrella to streamline funding and improve efficiency in research efforts until 2026.
2. What is the budget allocation for the PRITHVI scheme?
The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a budget of Rs 4,797 crore for the PRITHVI scheme, signifying a significant investment in advancing research in oceanic, atmospheric, and polar sciences.
3. Why is the PRITHVI scheme important?
Amidst the escalating challenges of climate change—characterized by extreme weather, rising sea levels, glacier depletion, and more—the PRITHVI scheme is pivotal for deepening our understanding of atmospheric, oceanic, and polar dynamics. Such insights are crucial for formulating strategies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
4. What areas of research does the PRITHVI scheme cover?
The PRITHVI scheme encompasses a broad spectrum of research areas, including but not limited to atmosphere and climate research, ocean services and technology, polar science and cryosphere research, seismology and geosciences, and initiatives aimed at research education, training, and outreach.
5. Will the PRITHVI scheme enable international collaborations?
Yes, the PRITHVI scheme marks a significant milestone by opening doors for Indian scientists to collaborate with international experts, fostering global knowledge exchange and joint research initiatives.
6. What is the Deep Ocean Mission?
Initiated by the MoES in 2021 with a funding of Rs 4,077 crore, the Deep Ocean Mission is dedicated to exploring the deep ocean for minerals and understanding the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining. This mission emphasizes surveys and exploration for metals and minerals in the Indian Ocean basin.
7. What are the objectives of the Deep Ocean Mission?
The Deep Ocean Mission aims to harness vital minerals like cobalt, copper, nickel, and manganese from the deep sea, identify zones suitable for hydrothermal activities and sulphide mineralisation, and ensure sustainable utilization of ocean resources while assessing the deep-sea environment’s impact.
8. How does the Deep Ocean Mission contribute to ocean research?
Through comprehensive surveys and explorations in the Indian Ocean, the Deep Ocean Mission enhances our understanding of oceanic resources and environmental dynamics, providing critical insights for sustainable resource utilization and marine ecosystem protection.
9. Are there any notable achievements of the Deep Ocean Mission so far?
The Deep Ocean Mission has achieved notable success in conducting surveys in the central Indian Ocean basin, identifying potential locations for metal exploration and zones conducive to hydrothermal activities and sulphide mineralisation, thereby contributing significantly to our understanding and sustainable exploitation of deep-sea resources.
