7 Basins, ₹792 Cr: India Accelerates Energy Self-Reliance Drive

India’s energy exploration efforts are set for a major acceleration as the government expands oil and gas exploration across seven sedimentary basins, leveraging advanced technologies, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced.

The Minister unveiled Mission Anveshan, one of India’s largest seismic mapping initiatives, aimed at surveying 20,000 ground line kilometres (GLK). Since its launch in October 2024, more than 8,000 GLK have already been completed. Backed by an investment of ₹792 crore, the mission seeks to fast-track the discovery of new hydrocarbon reserves across diverse terrains — from Rajasthan’s desert sands to the deep waters of the Krishna-Godavari Basin.

In a significant policy shift, the government has cleared 99% of previously restricted areas, thereby opening one million square kilometres of offshore territory for exploration. With ongoing reforms, the upcoming Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP) Round X is expected to draw strong interest from both domestic and international investors, paving the way for a more self-reliant and robust energy future for India.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.