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1 August 2026

Samudra Manthan offshore exploration scheme

The Samudra Manthan scheme is a major, high-outlay national policy initiative directly targeting energy security and infrastructure development, making it a highly probable subject for UPSC Mains questions.

1 min read Day 2 of 4 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • The Union Cabinet approved the 'Samudra Manthan' scheme for offshore exploration with an outlay of ₹84,084 crore until FY2030-31.
  • The scheme aims to enhance domestic energy security and address declining production from ageing oil and gas fields.
  • The scheme targets the discovery of over 600 million metric tonnes of oil equivalent (MMTOE).
  • Drilling of 60 deepwater exploration wells is the primary component, allocated ₹43,200 crore, with government support up to 50% of costs or ₹675 crore per well.
  • Offshore data acquisition is allocated ₹28,534 crore to reduce geological uncertainty and de-risk exploration.
  • ₹10,000 crore is earmarked for developing common offshore infrastructure hubs to facilitate commercialisation.
  • ₹2,000 crore is allocated for establishing oil and gas manufacturing and services zones to promote domestic localisation of equipment.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 4 in Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration Initiatives, which has been running since 26 July 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the significance of the Samudra Manthan scheme in enhancing India's energy security and reducing dependence on hydrocarbon imports. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Deepwater exploration is a capital-intensive sector with long gestation periods. Examine how the Samudra Manthan scheme addresses these challenges through its multi-pronged approach to infrastructure and risk mitigation. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. What is the primary objective of the 'Samudra Manthan' scheme approved by the Union Cabinet?

  2. What is the total financial outlay approved for the Samudra Manthan scheme until FY2030-31?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-01/samudra-manthan-offshore-exploration-scheme