India Sets Global Benchmark with OALP Round X, Aims for Energy Independence Under PM Modi’s Vision
New Delhi, July 20 – In a bold and transformative move toward securing India’s energy future, the country has opened one million square kilometers of offshore area for oilfield exploration, clearing 99% of the previously designated 'No-Go' zones. This strategic push under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said, marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards oil self-sufficiency.
Taking to social media on Sunday, Puri declared that India is taking “steady, confident steps” toward becoming energy independent. His remarks come amid the launch of the Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP) Round X, which is already garnering attention from global and domestic energy players.
OALP-X: A Game-Changer for India's Energy Landscape
The government’s flagship OALP Round X is being hailed as the largest and most ambitious exploration and production bidding round globally. With 25 oil and gas blocks on offer and 154 active exploration blocks already in play, India is setting new global benchmarks.
Minister Puri noted that the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is producing 34,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD) and 3 million metric standard cubic meters per day (MMSCMD) of gas. Furthermore, Rs 792 crore has been invested in Mission Anveshan, and 6,200 GLKM of seismic data has already been collected.
Policy Reforms Paving the Way
The government’s proactive stance is not limited to exploration alone. The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948 was amended in March 2025, and new Petroleum and Natural Gas (PNG) Rules were introduced within just three months. These reforms are designed to streamline the sector and attract investment with greater transparency and ease of doing business.
As part of this ongoing process, the Ministry of Petroleum has invited public feedback on the Draft Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, Model Revenue Sharing Contract (MRSC), and Petroleum Lease agreements. These pathbreaking steps aim to fast-track oil and gas production, enabling greater investor confidence.
Energy Access for All: City Gas Network Expansion
Puri also emphasized the widespread adoption of clean cooking fuel across India. From just 55 cities in 2014, the city gas distribution network now spans 300+ cities and towns. What once served 25 lakh households now reaches 1.5 crore homes, making clean fuel an integral part of daily life.
“India’s city gas distribution network has ushered in a revolution under PM Modi,” Puri said, underscoring the scale and speed of the energy transformation.
Investor-Friendly Climate
Highlighting the favorable conditions, Puri called on global entrepreneurs and industry leaders to tap into the growing energy potential of India. He said that there has never been a better time to invest in the country’s oil and gas sector, with liberalized rules, faster approvals, and transparent revenue-sharing mechanisms making it easier and more profitable than ever before.
Global Eyes on India’s Oil & Gas Sector
With India rapidly reducing dependence on oil imports and opening up new avenues for exploration and production, industry analysts are closely watching OALP Round X. The move not only positions India as a global energy contender but also strengthens its strategic autonomy.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
India’s latest oil and gas exploration initiative is more than just a policy shift—it’s a strategic national mission. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi steering the sector through visionary leadership and reformative action, the country is on a confident path to achieving energy independence. As global investors take note, OALP Round X is set to become a landmark chapter in India's energy story.