New Delhi, July 11: Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, inaugurated the first edition of Urja Varta, emphasizing the need for accelerated exploration and production (E&P) efforts to achieve energy self-sufficiency. Despite India’s substantial progress, only 10% of its sedimentary basin area is under exploration, with approximately $100 billion in investment opportunities by 2030.
Sweeping Reforms and Investment Opportunities
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has instituted reforms, including the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) and the Discovered Small Field (DSF) Policy, which have accelerated production growth and garnered investments of approximately $2 billion.
The government aims to increase exploration acreage to 1 million sq. km. by 2030 and has reduced “No-Go” areas in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by almost 99%.
Ease of Doing Business and Streamlined Processes
Shri Puri emphasized the need for ease of doing business, simplification of approval processes, and closer interaction between stakeholders. He announced the formation of a Joint Working Group (JWG) to examine issues related to ease of doing business and policy adequacy.
The government has also exempted Extended Reach Drilling from the Forest (Conservation) Act and aims to integrate DGH’s online portals by year-end.
Conclusion
Shri Hardeep Singh Puri urged stakeholders to leverage Urja Varta as a platform for thoughtful discussions and to contribute to the nation’s progress. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting E&P and announced initiatives to promote hydrocarbon efficiency and new energy sources.
The minister’s call to action is expected to catalyze investments and accelerate India’s journey towards energy self-sufficiency….*Ended*