Oil India Strengthens Andaman Exploration with Second Natural Gas Discovery

$OIL has achieved another milestone in its offshore exploration efforts after discovering natural gas in the Vijayapuram-3 exploratory well in the Andaman basin, marking its second hydrocarbon discovery in the block following a gas find in September 2025. The well is located around 15 kilometres off the east coast of the Andaman Islands in the AN-OSHP-2018/1 block and was drilled at a water depth of 355 metres under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP). Initial production testing in the Eocene formation at a depth of over 1,900 metres confirmed the presence of natural gas through continuous flaring, with the well showing immediate pressure build-up and gas production after perforation. With hydrocarbon presence now established in two out of the three exploratory wells drilled so far, the discovery further strengthens the exploration potential of the Andaman offshore basin. Following the earlier discovery, the company launched an appraisal programme that included reprocessing existing 2D seismic data and acquiring an additional 600 square kilometres of 3D seismic data, the interpretation of which is currently underway. The latest finding provides encouraging evidence of active hydrocarbon systems in the region and could support future exploration and appraisal drilling activities, enhancing the long-term resource potential of one of India's emerging offshore energy frontiers. Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and not a recommendation to buy or sell any securities. I, or my family, associates, or relatives, may have a financial interest in the securities mentioned.