Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 30: India has opened a fresh round of oil and gas exploration under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), aiming to boost domestic energy production and reduce import dependence.
Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday announced the launch of the 11th round, OALP-XI, offering 21 exploration blocks spread across nearly 80,228 square kilometres.
Describing the move as a major step forward, Puri said the latest round marks “a new chapter in India’s energy journey” and reflects the country’s focus on strengthening energy security.
He noted that, combined with the previous round OALP-10, the total area opened for exploration now stands at around 262,817 square kilometres. The earlier round had offered about 25 blocks covering 182,589 square kilometres.
With OALP-XI, the government is expanding exploration opportunities across both onshore and offshore regions.
In a post on X, Puri said the initiative aims to unlock “vast frontiers beneath our land and seas” while supporting growth, resilience and self-reliance. He added that the move aligns with the Centre’s broader push to accelerate bidding processes and expand exploration activities.
The government has also announced the bidding timeline, with submissions opening from 2:00 pm IST on March 30, 2026, and closing at 12:00 pm IST on May 29, 2026.
The new round is expected to attract greater participation in the exploration sector as India steps up efforts to tap its untapped energy resources.