India, April 20 -- India's renewed emphasis on domestic oil and gas exploration comes against a backdrop of global energy volatility, geopolitical uncertainty and sustained import dependence. Strengthening upstream production has once again been positioned as central to national energy security, with policymakers highlighting the need to accelerate exploration, attract capital, and diversify risk in an increasingly uncertain global market.

At India Energy Week 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the government's aim to attract $100 billion of investment in oil and gas by 2030, while highlighting a broader $500 billion energy opportunity. Pointing to a liberalised E&P regime, expanded exploration acreage, and easier business con...