India, July 2 -- India's next energy challenge is no longer only securing supplies from global markets. It is increasing the country's ability to produce more oil and natural gas at home. As one of the world's fastest-growing energy consumers, India will continue to require reliable supplies of hydrocarbons even as renewable energy assumes a larger role in the country's energy mix. Strengthening domestic oil and gas production must therefore remain a strategic national priority-not only to reduce import dependence but also to support economic growth, industrial development and long-term energy resilience.

India currently imports nearly 90 per cent of its crude oil requirement, making the country vulnerable to global price volatility, geo...