UPSC Notes

Samudra Manthan – National Offshore Exploration Scheme

Articles

1

Momentum

5

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

India's high import dependence for crude oil and natural gas poses significant economic and strategic vulnerabilities. This scheme represents a major government initiative to address energy security, reduce the import bill, and foster domestic industrial capabilities, making it crucial for understanding India's economic and energy policy.

The Samudra Manthan scheme is a major government initiative aimed at accelerating hydrocarbon exploration and production in India's offshore basins. It seeks to enhance energy security by reducing import dependence and building a robust domestic energy ecosystem through strategic investments and risk-sharing mechanisms.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Outlay

₹84,084 crore up to FY 2030–31 (Phase-I)

Primary Goal

Add over 600 MMTOE of hydrocarbon reserves and reduce import dependence

Key Components

Large-scale seismic surveys, financial support for deepwater drilling, shared production infrastructure, oil & gas manufacturing zones

Approach

Risk-sharing model to attract private capital and de-risk offshore ventures

Reference table

Samudra Manthan Component-Wise Allocation (Phase-I)

ComponentAmount (₹ Crore)
Offshore data acquisition28,534
Offshore exploration & infrastructure-led production55,200
Monitoring and support activities350
Total84,084

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaEnergy Security
Conceptual areaEconomic Development

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Ministry of Petroleum and Natural GasFormulates and oversees
ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation)Implements
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Mains (GS3): Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Infrastructure: Energy.

Mains (GS2): Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Quick revision

  • ₹84,084 crore outlay for offshore hydrocarbon exploration.
  • Aims to add 600 MMTOE reserves by FY 2030-31.
  • Key components: seismic surveys, deepwater drilling support, shared infrastructure, manufacturing zones.
  • Reduces crude oil import dependence (currently ~USD 144 billion/year).
  • Promotes 'Make in India' in oil & gas sector.

Topic timeline

Energy SecurityEconomic Development

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Current topic

Samudra Manthan – National Offshore Exploration Scheme

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