When did Oil India Limited start its offshore drilling in the Kerala-Konkan Basin?

Oil India Limited commenced its offshore drilling campaign in the Kerala-Konkan Basin recently.

What is the significance of the new offshore well in Indian waters?

The new well being drilled is set to be among the deepest offshore wells ever drilled in Indian waters, reaching a depth of 6000 meters.

How does this offshore drilling campaign help India's energy needs?

This campaign aims to tap into potential new energy resources to reduce India's substantial reliance on imported oil and natural gas.

Home / Business and Economy / India Taps Deep Waters: Offshore Drilling Begins

India Taps Deep Waters: Offshore Drilling Begins

29 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Oil India Limited initiated offshore drilling in Kerala-Konkan Basin.
The first well drilled is among India's deepest offshore wells.
India aims to boost domestic energy production amidst high import reliance.

India Taps Deep Waters: Offshore Drilling Begins

Oil India Limited has initiated a historic offshore drilling campaign in the Kerala-Konkan Basin, a move announced by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Puri. This development signifies a major step in India's energy independence strategy, with the first well being drilled 20 nautical miles offshore Kerala and targeting a depth of 6000 meters, positioning it among the deepest offshore wells in the country's waters.

The frontier Category-III basin is expected to hold substantial energy potential. With extensive 3D seismic surveys already completed, this campaign is designed to probe key Cretaceous plays. This exploration is crucial for India, which currently imports a significant portion of its oil and natural gas needs, underscoring the nation's commitment to ramping up domestic fossil-based energy production.