ONGC and Oil India Ltd will launch a ₹3,200 crore stratigraphic drilling campaign in untapped offshore areas next year. This represents a major step towards discovering new hydrocarbon reserves and reducing import dependence.

ONGC and Oil India Ltd (OIL) are set to launch a ₹3,200 crore stratigraphic drilling campaign in early 2026 to explore untapped offshore hydrocarbon reserves and reduce India's import dependency.

The initial phase will involve drilling four deepsea wells in the Andaman, Mahanadi, Saurashtra, and Bengal sedimentary basins. BP will provide technical expertise for site identification and drilling operations.

Stratigraphic drilling focuses on analysing subsurface geological formations to assess potential hydrocarbon resources without immediate extraction.

The government will reimburse ONGC and OIL for drilling expenses, aiming to enhance domestic production and decrease the $150 billion annual import bill. This initiative aligns with India's strategy to bolster energy security and reduce reliance on foreign oil and gas supplies.

The campaign is expected to provide valuable data for future exploration and development of hydrocarbon resources. The collaboration between ONGC, OIL, and BP signifies a concerted effort to advance India's energy sector capabilities.

Successful outcomes from this campaign could lead to increased investment and activity in India's offshore exploration sector. The project underscores the importance of strategic partnerships and technological expertise in achieving energy independence.

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