NEW DELHI, August 1 — The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the "Samudra Manthan" National Offshore Exploration Scheme, a landmark Central Sector initiative under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas with a total outlay of ₹84,084 crore running through FY 2030–31.
The scheme aims to dramatically accelerate seismic surveys, deep-water mapping and exploratory drilling across India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). By unlocking undiscovered hydrocarbon and gas reserves off the east and west coasts, the program seeks to bolster national energy security and reduce import dependence.
Under the initiative, state-owned and private exploration enterprises will receive financial incentives and streamlined regulatory clearances for high-risk offshore blocks. Modern survey vessels equipped with advanced bathymetric and geophysical sensors will be deployed starting this fiscal year.
Competitive exam candidates preparing for SSC CGL, UPSC and State PSC exams should bookmark "Samudra Manthan" under major central government schemes, noting its ministry, financial outlay and primary energy security objectives.