Cabinet approves 'Samudra Manthan' (National Offshore Exploration Scheme) with an outlay of Rs.84,084 crore

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the ‘Samudra Manthan’ – National Offshore Exploration Scheme – a central‑sector programme of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas with an outlay of Rs 84,084 crore for implementation up to FY 2030‑31. The scheme aims to unlock offshore energy potential by acquiring high‑quality seismic data, accelerating deep‑water and ultra‑deep‑water drilling, developing common offshore production infrastructure, and establishing an integrated oil‑and‑gas manufacturing zone. It is projected to add over 600 MMTOE of reserves, boost domestic oil‑gas output, generate employment, and strengthen indigenous manufacturing under Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.