What is the National Deep Water Exploration Mission?UPSC

 Why in News ?The National Deep Water Exploration Mission, announced by the Prime Minister of India on August 15, 2025, during the 79th Independence Day address, is a strategic initiative to enhance India’s energy security by exploring untapped offshore oil and gas reserves. Below is a clear and properly structured overview of the mission, based on the provided details:

What is the National Deep Water Exploration Mission?

It is a flagship program aimed at accelerating the exploration of oil and gas reserves beneath India’s seabed, particularly in deep-water regions. Operating in a mission-driven mode, it seeks to boost domestic hydrocarbon production and reduce reliance on imports.

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
• Supporting Bodies: Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) and allied research institutions.

Objectives:

The mission is designed to:

• Reduce Import Dependence: Lower India’s reliance on crude oil (currently 88%) and natural gas (50%) imports.
• Enhance Domestic Production: Increase the capacity for hydrocarbon production within India.
• Strengthen Energy Security: Ensure long-term energy stability in a volatile global market.
• Promote Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Foster self-reliance in the energy sector.

Key Features:

1. Deep-Water Exploration Focus:
   • Targets unexplored offshore regions, such as the Andaman-Nicobar basin and the Andhra coast.
2. Policy Reforms:
   • Supported by the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) and recent exploration-friendly legislative changes to streamline operations.
3. Large-Scale Exploration:
   • Opens over 1 million square kilometers of previously restricted “No-Go” areas for exploration.
4. Advanced Technology:
   • Utilizes seismic surveys, modern drilling techniques, and AI-enabled exploration tools for precision and efficiency.
5. Public-Private Collaboration:
   • Encourages investment from domestic and global players to drive innovation and funding.

Significance:

• Energy Independence:
  • Reduces India’s heavy reliance on imported oil and gas, aligning with the goal of energy self-sufficiency.
• Economic Benefits:
  • Saves billions in import costs, enabling greater investment in social welfare and infrastructure development.
• Strategic Security:
  • Enhances control over domestic energy resources, reducing vulnerability to global market fluctuations.