The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has secured approval to explore and extract oil and gas from four offshore deep-sea blocks located off the coast of Tamil Nadu. The green light comes as part of India’s broader efforts to boost domestic energy production and reduce dependence on imported hydrocarbons.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas granted ONGC the rights under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), which is designed to streamline the process of awarding exploration rights and encourage investment in the energy sector. These deep-sea blocks are expected to hold significant untapped hydrocarbon reserves, offering the potential to strengthen India’s energy security in the coming years.
Officials noted that ONGC’s new exploration areas lie in strategic proximity to existing offshore infrastructure, which could help accelerate the development and monetization of any discoveries. The projects will involve advanced deepwater drilling technologies and environmental safeguards, given the sensitivity of marine ecosystems.
This move aligns with the government’s goal to substantially increase domestic oil and gas output by 2030 as part of its energy transition strategy. It also reinforces Tamil Nadu’s growing role in India’s offshore energy map, complementing other initiatives in wind and solar energy across the state.
ONGC, India’s largest oil and gas producer, continues to expand its offshore operations, with recent successes in other coastal regions, including the Krishna-Godavari basin.
Further technical studies, including 3D seismic surveys and exploratory drilling, are scheduled to commence shortly, with ONGC aiming to fast-track early appraisal and development programs if commercial quantities are confirmed.