Mission Anveshan Scheme

India is currently focusing on enhancing its energy security through the Mission Anveshan scheme. Launched in fiscal year 2025, this initiative incentivises seismic surveys to identify oil and gas reserves in sedimentary basins. The government may extend the scheme for another year amid rising energy demands.

Overview of Mission Anveshan

Mission Anveshan aims to boost domestic oil and gas production. It provides financial incentives to state-run companies like Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Limited. The scheme is part of a broader effort to reduce India’s reliance on energy imports.

Budget and Timeline

The scheme was approved with a budget of ₹720 crore for two years. It covers two-dimensional seismic surveys across 20,275 line-kilometers in seven sedimentary basins. The initial phase is set to conclude in fiscal year 2026, with discussions about extending it to fiscal year 2027.

Seismic Surveys and Techniques

Under the scheme, companies conduct seismic data acquisition, processing, and interpretation. The focus is shifting towards three-dimensional surveys, which provide more accurate geological assessments. This transition aims to improve the understanding of hydrocarbon resources.

Progress and Challenges

Oil India has made progress in the Rajasthan and Ganga-Punjab basins, completing 1,683 LKM of 2D seismic data. However, ONGC faced delays due to contractual disputes. The government has urged timely completion of surveys to attract global investment in exploration.

Government’s Strategy for Energy Security

India imports approximately 85% of its energy needs. The government is working to explore new areas for oil and gas. Recent auctions under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) have opened previously restricted zones for exploration.

Future Prospects

India is poised to meet portion of the world’s energy demand growth in the coming decades. The government aims to unlock an estimated 42 billion tonnes of untapped energy potential.

Role of International Partnerships

ONGC has formed partnerships with global firms like Reliance Industries and bp plc. These collaborations are vital for enhancing technological capabilities and investment in India’s upstream sector.

Impact on Domestic Consumption

India’s consumption of petroleum products has reached record levels. The government’s initiatives aim to boost domestic production to meet this increasing demand.

Monitoring and Evaluation

A parliamentary committee has recommended close monitoring of the scheme’s progress. Timely fund releases and addressing operational challenges are essential for achieving targets.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the significance of domestic oil and gas exploration for India’s energy security.
2. Discuss in the light of global energy trends and India’s consumption patterns, how Mission Anveshan can impact India’s energy strategy.
3. What are the potential environmental impacts of increased oil and gas exploration in India? Explain with suitable examples.
4. What is the role of international partnerships in enhancing India’s energy exploration capabilities? Discuss the implications.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the significance of domestic oil and gas exploration for India’s energy security.

1. India imports about 85% of its energy needs, making domestic exploration crucial for reducing dependency.
2. Increased domestic production can stabilize energy prices and improve energy security.
3. Exploration efforts can lead to the discovery of new reserves, enhancing the overall energy supply.
4. Domestic exploration supports job creation and economic growth within the energy sector.
5. Government initiatives like Mission Anveshan aim to incentivize exploration, reflecting a strategic focus on energy independence.

2. Discuss in the light of global energy trends and India’s consumption patterns, how Mission Anveshan can impact India’s energy strategy.

1. Global energy demand is shifting, with emerging economies like India expected to drive growth.
2. Mission Anveshan aligns with India’s goal to increase domestic oil and gas production amid rising consumption.
3. By incentivizing seismic surveys, the mission can uncover new reserves, contributing to energy self-sufficiency.
4. Increased domestic production can mitigate the impact of global price fluctuations on India’s economy.
5. Strategic investments in exploration can position India as a more player in the global energy market.

3. What are the potential environmental impacts of increased oil and gas exploration in India? Explain with suitable examples.

1. Increased exploration can lead to habitat destruction and biodiversity loss, particularly in sensitive ecosystems.
2. Oil spills and leaks during exploration can contaminate land and water sources, affecting local communities.
3. Seismic surveys may disrupt wildlife and marine life, particularly in coastal and riverine areas.
4. Examples include the impact of oil drilling in the Amazon rainforest, which resulted in deforestation and pollution.
5. Mitigation measures and strict regulations are essential to minimize environmental harm during exploration activities.

4. What is the role of international partnerships in enhancing India’s energy exploration capabilities? Discuss the implications.

1. International partnerships bring advanced technology and expertise, improving exploration efficiency.
2. Collaborations with firms like Reliance and bp plc enhance investment and resource sharing in India’s energy sector.
3. Such partnerships can facilitate knowledge transfer, boosting local capabilities in exploration and production.
4. They also provide access to global markets and networks, enhancing India’s position in the energy landscape.
5. However, reliance on foreign entities may raise concerns about national control over energy resources.