Two offshore blocks with cobalt- and nickel-rich nodules in the Andaman Sea put up for auction
Key facts
- The Mines Ministry launched the auction of two offshore mineral blocks in the Andaman Sea on 1 October 2026.
- The blocks are Sewell Rise-01 and West Sewell Ridge-01. Together they cover over 1,632 sq km.
- Both hold polymetallic nodules and crusts, with cobalt, nickel, manganese, copper and rare earth elements.
- Winners get a Composite Licence. Bids close on 28 December 2026.
- The auction runs under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002.
Why it matters
[Policy] Cobalt, nickel and rare earths are critical minerals. India imports most of them. These seabed blocks could feed batteries, electric vehicles and clean energy. West Sewell Ridge-01 lies off Great Nicobar Island, a strategic area.
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