India has made a landmark natural gas discovery in the Andaman Sea, marking the first confirmed find in this previously under-explored basin. Initial tests indicate high-quality methane, opening new possibilities for domestic energy production, reducing import dependency, and boosting India’s energy security.
In a significant development for India’s energy sector, the Union Government has announced the discovery of substantial natural gas reserves in the Andaman Sea. This find, described by Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri as “an ocean of energy opportunities,” represents the first confirmed natural gas discovery in the Andaman basin—a region long considered under-explored.
The discovery was made at the Sri Vijayapuram-2 well, located approximately 17 kilometers off the eastern coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 295 meters. Drilled to a target depth of 2,650 meters, initial tests conducted between 2,212 and 2,250 meters revealed the presence of natural gas with intermittent flaring. Subsequent analysis of samples transported to Kakinada confirmed a methane content of 87%, underscoring the quality and commercial potential of the reserves.
This milestone is particularly noteworthy because it signals the potential to unlock vast energy resources in an area that had previously received limited exploration attention. The discovery is poised to strengthen India’s energy security by contributing to domestic production and reducing reliance on imported gas.
Minister Puri highlighted the strategic importance of the find, noting that India aims to collaborate with global deepwater exploration experts to assess the commercial viability of these reserves. The initiative aligns with India’s broader energy self-reliance strategy, seeking to maximize domestic production and leverage frontier regions like the Andaman Sea.
Beyond natural gas, the Andaman basin is showing promise for crude oil exploration. Earlier statements by Minister Puri indicated that India could potentially discover oil reserves in the region comparable to the significant offshore fields of Guyana. Estimates suggest a potential 184,440 crore liters of crude oil, which, if proven, could significantly transform India’s energy landscape and contribute to long-term economic growth.
Energy experts view this discovery as a pivotal moment, potentially opening the Andaman Sea for further deepwater exploration. The government’s strategic approach to developing these reserves in collaboration with international partners signals a commitment to harnessing India’s untapped natural resources responsibly while balancing environmental considerations.
As India moves forward, the successful development of these reserves could enhance energy security, reduce import dependence, and contribute to economic resilience, positioning the country for a stronger foothold in the global energy sector. The Andaman Sea discovery not only highlights India’s growing exploration capabilities but also underscores the potential of frontier basins to reshape the nation’s energy future.