Mission Anveshan

April 22, 2025

The Central Government is considering extending Mission Anveshan. This initiative incentivises seismic surveys to map oil and gas deposits. Launched in fiscal year 2025, the programme aims to boost energy security by identifying new reserves. The scheme is set to conclude in fiscal year 2026 but may continue until fiscal year 2027.

Objectives

The primary goal of Mission Anveshan is to enhance India’s energy security. It encourages state-owned companies like Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Ltd to conduct seismic data acquisition. This includes processing, interpretation, and mapping of hydrocarbon reserves in sedimentary basins.

Budget and Duration

The scheme was allocated ₹720 crore over two years, covering fiscal years 2025 and 2026. It focuses on conducting 2D seismic surveys across 20,275 line-kilometres in seven onshore sedimentary basins. These basins include Ganga-Punjab, Rajasthan, Saurashtra, Deccan Syncline, Cuddapah, Krishna-Godavari, and Chhattisgarh.

Technological Advancements

Mission Anveshan places emphasis on advancing survey techniques. While 2D surveys are crucial, there is a shift towards 3D seismic surveys. These 3D surveys provide more accurate assessments of hydrocarbon reserves. The government aims to adopt these superior technologies to improve exploration outcomes.

Current Progress and Challenges

Oil India has progressed by gathering seismic data in the Rajasthan and Ganga-Punjab basins. They have completed approximately 1,683 line-kilometres of 2D seismic data. However, ONGC’s progress has been hindered due to legal disputes over contracts. Their experimental surveys in the Cuddapah area are underway, with further data acquisition anticipated.

Strategic Importance of Hydrocarbon Exploration

The government is actively seeking to explore previously restricted areas for oil and gas. This effort is crucial as India relies on imports for approximately 85% of its energy needs. The focus on domestic production aims to decrease this dependency and enhance self-sufficiency.

Future Prospects

India’s energy consumption is projected to grow in the coming decades. Experts predict that 25% of the world’s incremental energy demand growth will originate from India. The government is committed to unlocking the country’s untapped energy potential, estimated at around 42 billion tonnes of oil and gas equivalent.

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