Oil India Discovers New Natural Gas Reserves in Rajasthan

State-owned Oil India Limited (OIL) has discovered a significant natural gas reserve in the Dandewala Field located in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. The discovery is considered important for strengthening India’s domestic energy production and reducing dependence on imported fuels. The newly discovered gas-bearing zone was found in the shallow SanFormation of the field, marking the first successful gas discovery in this formation.

Key Details of the Discovery:

According to Oil India, the well recorded an average gas inflow of nearly 25,000 Standard Cubic Metres per Day (SCMD). The gas reserve was discovered at a depth of around 950 metres, with preliminary estimates suggesting a Gas In Place (GIP) potential of nearly 75 Million Metric Standard Cubic Metres (MMSCM). The discovery is expected to improve exploration activities in western Rajasthan and support India’s long-term energy security goals.

Importance for India’s Energy Security:

The discovery is significant because India imports a major share of its crude oil and natural gas requirements. Increasing domestic gas production can help reduce import dependence, lower energy costs, and promote cleaner fuel usage. Natural gas is considered a cleaner fossil fuel and plays an important role in power generation, fertilizer production, PNG connections, and CNG transportation.

About Oil India Limited (OIL):

Oil India Limited is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Established in 1959, the company is involved in exploration, production, and transportation of crude oil and natural gas. Its headquarters is located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. OIL has major operational areas in Assam, Rajasthan, and offshore regions of India.

Government Energy Targets:

The Government of India aims to increase the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix from about 6% to 15% by 2030. To achieve this goal, initiatives such as the National Gas Grid expansion, City Gas Distribution (CGD) network, and Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) are being promoted.

Important Facts

Discovery Location: Dandewala Field, Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan

Discovering Company: Oil India Limited (OIL)

Type of Resource: Natural Gas

Formation: SanFormation

Estimated Potential: Around 75 MMSCM

Gas Flow Rate: Around 25,000 SCMD

Depth of Discovery: Approximately 950 metres

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas: Hardeep Singh Puri

Chairman & Managing Director of Oil India Limited: Ranjit Rath