Deep Ocean Mission scientists set India at the forefront of deep-sea exploration

NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh on Monday felicitated scientists and researchers associated with India’s Deep Ocean Mission, who were invited by the government as Special Guests to witness the Republic Day Parade 2026.

The felicitation ceremony was held at Prithvi Bhawan, where the Ministry of Earth Sciences hosted a luncheon in honour of the scientists whose work has strengthened India’s capabilities in deep-sea exploration and marine science.

Interacting with the gathering, Singh said the Deep Ocean Mission reflected the scientists’ relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, positioning India among the leading nations in deep-ocean research and technology.

Congratulating the team, M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, said the occasion marked a moment of collective pride for the ministry and the scientific community. He noted that the Ministry of Earth Sciences was invited as a Special Guest to the Republic Day ceremony for the first time, highlighting its growing national importance.

Ravichandran said that over the past 19 years, the ministry had played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s capabilities in weather forecasting, climate services, ocean and polar research, and geosciences, contributing directly to national development and disaster resilience.

The scientists and researchers thanked the government for the recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to achieving the objectives of the Deep Ocean Mission.

Director General of the India Meteorological Department Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, along with other dignitaries, researchers and scientists from biotechnology, space, atomic energy sectors and startups, were present at the event.