India has initiated a fresh phase of oil and gas exploration to enhance domestic energy production. The government has introduced the 11th round of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), offering 21 blocks covering approximately 80,228 square kilometers.
Describing the launch as a significant advancement, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized that OALP-XI signifies a new era in India’s energy endeavors. He underscored the country’s commitment to fortifying energy security and reducing reliance on imports.
Puri stated that when combined with OALP-10, the total exploration area opened up now extends to about 262,817 square kilometers. The previous round, OALP-10, encompassed roughly 25 blocks across 182,589 square kilometers. With the addition of OALP-XI, the government aims to broaden exploration opportunities on both land and offshore territories.
In a statement, Puri articulated that the objective is to unlock vast potential beneath India’s land and seas to bolster growth, resilience, and self-sufficiency. This initiative aligns with the government’s overarching vision to accelerate bidding processes and expand exploration activities.
The government has also announced the bidding timeline, with submissions commencing on March 30, 2026, at 2:00 pm IST and concluding on May 29, 2026, at 12:00 pm IST. This latest round underscores India’s ongoing endeavors to harness its untapped energy reservoirs and attract increased participation in the exploration sector.