The Union Cabinet has approved the ‘Samudra Manthan’ National Offshore Exploration Scheme with an outlay of ₹84,084 crore, marking one of India’s biggest investments in offshore oil and gas exploration. The scheme will be implemented by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas through FY 2030-31 to accelerate exploration, increase domestic hydrocarbon production and strengthen the country’s long-term energy security.

The programme focuses on expanding exploration in deepwater and ultra-deepwater regions through large-scale seismic surveys, exploratory drilling and scientific studies in frontier offshore basins. It also includes the development of common offshore production and evacuation infrastructure, along with an integrated oil and gas manufacturing and services zone to support future discoveries.

A significant portion of the investment will support high-cost offshore drilling, with government assistance available for deepwater exploration wells. The initiative is expected to encourage greater participation from both domestic and global energy companies by reducing exploration risks and improving access to advanced technologies.

According to the government, the scheme has the potential to add more than 600 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE) to India’s hydrocarbon reserves. Besides increasing domestic oil and gas production, it is expected to generate employment, promote indigenous manufacturing under the Make in India initiative and create new opportunities across the offshore energy value chain.

Industry experts believe the Samudra Manthan scheme could transform India’s offshore exploration landscape by combining strategic public investment with modern technology and shared infrastructure. As India works to reduce its dependence on imported crude oil and natural gas, the initiative is expected to play a vital role in building a more secure and self-reliant energy future.

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