The Study Group on Science and Technology, comprising 22 members of Parliament and 7 officers of the Lok Sabha, Secretariat conducted in October 1990, on-the spot study of the scientific activities relating to deep sea-bed exploration undertaken at the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa. The Study Group had detailed discussions on the Polymetallic Nodules Programme. The Committee was provided with literature and information relating to state-of-the-art knowledge and practices in the field of deep sea-bed mining in developed countries and in India, as well as research and development facilities available within the country for carrying out the deep sea-bed exploration work.