The Union Government has introduced a series of strategic policy reforms aimed at boosting domestic hydrocarbon production and reducing India’s dependence on imports, as stated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
A key initiative in this effort is the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), which has been instrumental in expanding the country’s hydrocarbon exploration efforts. Since its launch, the OALP has made notable progress through several bidding rounds. In rounds I to VIII, a total of 2,42,056 square kilometres across 144 blocks have been awarded for exploration.
This initiative has led to the discovery of 13 hydrocarbon reserves, including seven oil fields and six gas fields, contributing to India’s energy security and enhancing domestic production. The total financial commitment for these awarded blocks amounts to USD 3.36 billion, with an extensive work programme underway. Planned activities include 51,725 LKM of 2D seismic surveys, 66,843 SKM of 3D seismic surveys, and the drilling of 499 exploratory wells.
So far, work completed includes 31,918 LKM of 2D seismic surveys, 37,122 SKM of 3D seismic surveys, and 87 exploratory wells, with 11 wells currently under development. These efforts reflect the government’s dedication to strengthening India’s energy sector.
To accelerate domestic exploration and attract more investment, the government has launched OALP Bid Round X, marking India’s largest-ever oil and gas block auction. This round offers 25 blocks across 13 sedimentary basins, covering an area of 1.92 lakh square kilometres, with 91% of the acreage in offshore regions. Notably, OALP Round X includes 19 offshore blocks, 13 of which are in deepwater (DW) and ultra-deepwater (Ultra-DW) areas. It also features 11 blocks in Category II basins and five in Category III basins.
The government is inviting both domestic and international investors to participate in this bidding round, aiming to unlock the full potential of India’s hydrocarbon resources. The bid submission deadline for OALP Round X is July 31, 2025, at 1200 hrs IST. Through this initiative, the government is advancing its goal of energy self-sufficiency, reducing import dependency, and promoting economic growth and investment in the hydrocarbon sector.
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