India has announced a significant natural gas discovery off the east coast of the Andaman Islands, marking a major breakthrough in the country’s push for deep‑sea energy exploration. Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed that the find was made at the Sri Vijayapuram‑3 well, located around 15 km offshore, in waters that have long been considered geologically promising but under‑explored.
According to preliminary data, gas was encountered at a water depth of 355 metres, with test production conducted at depths exceeding 1,900 metres. Continuous flaring during testing indicates a sustained gas presence, raising hopes for a commercially viable reserve. State‑owned Oil India Ltd is now conducting detailed sampling to determine the gas composition, calorific value, and long‑term production potential.
The discovery forms part of India’s ambitious Samudra Manthan Mission, a national programme aimed at accelerating exploration in deepwater and ultra‑deepwater basins. The Andaman offshore region has been identified as a frontier zone with high geological potential, and this latest success is expected to intensify drilling activity in the area.
Energy analysts say the find could strengthen India’s long‑term strategy to reduce dependence on imported natural gas, diversify supply sources, and enhance energy security at a time of global volatility. With LNG prices fluctuating and geopolitical tensions affecting traditional supply routes, domestic discoveries carry strategic importance.
The government is expected to fast‑track appraisal drilling, seismic surveys, and infrastructure planning to assess the full scale of the reservoir. If commercially viable, the Andaman basin could emerge as a new energy hub, complementing existing offshore fields in the Krishna‑Godavari and Mumbai High regions.
India’s deep‑sea exploration success also signals growing technological capability and confidence in tackling complex offshore environments.