Cabinet Approves Samudra Manthan for Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
The Union Cabinet has approved the Samudra Manthan scheme, a major national offshore exploration programme, to boost oil and gas exploration in India's offshore basins. This decision is significant as it aims to reduce India's dependence on oil and gas imports, a key concern for energy security.
Background
India has been increasing its focus on domestic hydrocarbon exploration to cut import bills and enhance energy self-sufficiency. The Samudra Manthan scheme is part of this broader strategy, targeting deepwater and ultra-deepwater areas that have remained largely unexplored.
Key facts
The Union Cabinet approved Samudra Manthan on Friday, August 1, 2026.
The scheme has a total outlay of Rs 84,084 crore.
It is a national offshore exploration programme to step up oil and gas exploration in India's offshore basins.
The scheme aims to increase exploration in deepwater and ultra-deepwater areas.
It includes large-scale seismic surveys, exploratory drilling, and creation of common offshore infrastructure.
The programme is planned to be implemented over the next five years.
The primary objective is to reduce dependence on imports.
Prelims pointers
- Samudra Manthan: National offshore exploration scheme
- Approved by Union Cabinet
- Cost: Rs 84,084 crore
- Focus: deepwater and ultra-deepwater exploration
- Duration: next five years
- Related to: oil and gas sector, energy security
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of Samudra Manthan in enhancing India's energy security and reducing import dependence.
- Critically examine the challenges in deepwater oil and gas exploration in India and the role of government schemes in addressing them.