New Delhi, July 31: In a significant move to enhance India's energy security and reduce dependence on imported crude oil and natural gas, the Union Cabinet has approved the 'Samudra Manthan' National Offshore Exploration Scheme with a financial outlay of ₹84,084 crore. The initiative aims to accelerate offshore hydrocarbon exploration and production while promoting self-reliance in the energy sector.

The scheme, to be implemented over the coming years, focuses on expanding exploration activities in India's offshore sedimentary basins through advanced technologies, scientific surveys, and deepwater drilling. The government expects the programme to unlock untapped oil and gas reserves, boost domestic production, and attract fresh investments from both public and private players.

A major component of the scheme involves acquiring and processing high-quality seismic data to identify promising hydrocarbon reserves beneath the seabed. The plan also includes drilling exploratory wells in deepwater and ultra-deepwater regions, where the potential for significant oil and gas discoveries remains high.

The Cabinet believes the initiative will strengthen India's long-term energy security by increasing domestic production and reducing the country's import bill. Officials said the programme aligns with the government's broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by encouraging indigenous manufacturing, technology development, and innovation in the oil and gas sector.

Apart from boosting exploration, the scheme provides for the development of common offshore infrastructure, including facilities for production, transportation, and evacuation of hydrocarbons. It also proposes the creation of an integrated oil and gas manufacturing and services ecosystem to support future exploration and production activities.

According to government estimates, the programme has the potential to add substantial hydrocarbon reserves over the next several years while generating employment opportunities across exploration, engineering, manufacturing, and related service sectors. The initiative is also expected to enhance India's technological capabilities in offshore energy exploration.

The approval comes at a time when global energy markets continue to face uncertainty due to geopolitical developments and fluctuating fuel prices. By strengthening domestic exploration efforts, the government aims to reduce vulnerability to external supply disruptions and ensure a more stable energy future.

Industry experts have welcomed the Cabinet's decision, stating that the large-scale investment could revive exploration in frontier offshore areas and encourage greater participation from domestic and international energy companies. They believe the scheme will play a crucial role in improving India's energy resilience while supporting sustained economic growth.

With the launch of the Samudra Manthan scheme, India has taken a major step toward expanding its offshore energy resources and achieving greater self-sufficiency in meeting the country's growing demand for oil and natural gas.

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