Project Samudra Manthan: Unlocking India’s Offshore Energy Independence

The Union Cabinet has approved 'Samudra Manthan', the National Offshore Exploration Scheme, with a budget of ₹84,084 crore ($8.81 billion) through FY31 to boost India’s energy security and advance the Viksit Bharat vision. Administered by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, the initiative covers the full offshore value chain—from seismic data processing and deepwater exploratory drilling to scientific exploration in frontier basins. It will fund shared offshore production and evacuation infrastructure, alongside an integrated Oil & Gas Manufacturing and Services Zone, supported by digital management, technology integration, and global collaboration. Building on a decade of sector reforms, including modern contracts and expanded offshore access, the scheme aims to add over 600 Million Metric Tonnes of Oil Equivalent (MMTOE) to national reserves. By driving public investment, it is set to accelerate domestic production, lower reliance on imports, and spur job creation under Make in India. Ultimately, the scheme aims to create a globally competitive ecosystem for offshore technology and services, securing India’s long-term energy independence. $ONGC $OIL $RIIL