Where is Wadge Bank, the site of the hydrocarbon exploration project proposed in May 2025 under the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) and opposed by fishermen, located?

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: (a) A submarine plateau about 80 km off the southern coast in the Indian Ocean
Explanation: • Wadge Bank is a shallow submarine plateau located approximately 80 km off the southern coast of India, near Kanyakumari. • It is ecologically rich and known for high marine productivity, which is why fishermen opposed the proposed hydrocarbon exploration under HELP (Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy) in May 2025.
Information Booster: • Wadge Bank lies in the Indian Ocean, south of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. • It is an important fishing ground, especially for tuna and demersal fish species. • Activities such as hydrocarbon drilling pose risks like habitat disturbance and reduced fish availability