Why in News?
India signed an agreement with the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to explore polymetallic sulphides in the Carlsberg Ridge, northwest Indian Ocean. This is the world’s first licence for that area, enabling India to prospect for deep-sea metals like manganese, cobalt, nickel and copper.
Description:
- Autonomous intergovernmental body created under:
- 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)
- 1994 Agreement on Part XI (deep seabed).
- Came into force: 16 Nov 1994 (same date as UNCLOS entry into force).
- HQ: Kingston, Jamaica.
Why ISA Matters:
- Gateway for accessing strategic minerals needed for batteries, renewables, electronics.
- Balances resource utilisation with sustainable ocean governance.
Mandate:
- Regulate mining & related activities in the seabed beyond national jurisdiction (called “the Area”).
- Ensure exploitation of minerals (nickel, cobalt, manganese nodules, polymetallic sulphides, etc.) is for the benefit of humankind as a whole.
- Protect the marine environment from harmful effects of deep-seabed activities.
The Area:
- Seabed, ocean floor & subsoil beyond EEZ/continental shelf limits.
- Covers ~ 54% of the world’s ocean floor.
Membership:
- Open to all UNCLOS States Parties.
- Present strength: 169 members (168 States + EU).
Institutional Structure:
| Organ | Role |
| Assembly | All members; sets policy, elects Council, adopts budget |
| Council (36) | Executive body; approves exploration/mining contracts |
| Secretariat | Headed by Secretary-General (4-yr term) |
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