In a major boost to India’s energy exploration efforts, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has announced the discovery of natural gas in the Andaman basin, confirming long-held beliefs about the region’s resource potential.
Making the announcement on social media, Puri described the find as opening up “an ocean of energy opportunities” in the Andaman Sea. The discovery was made in the Sri Vijayapuram-2 well, located about 17 km (9.20 nautical miles) off the east coast of the Andaman Islands at a water depth of 295 metres and a drilling depth of 2,650 metres.
Key Details of the Discovery
Well Location: Sri Vijayapuram-2, Andaman Basin
Distance from Shoreline: 17 km (9.20 nautical miles)
Water Depth: 295 metres
Target Depth: 2,650 metres
Gas Content: 87% methane (based on testing)
Initial production tests between depths of 2,212–2,250 metres confirmed the presence of natural gas, with intermittent flaring observed. Gas samples transported to Kakinada for testing showed a methane concentration of 87%, indicating strong commercial potential.
Next Steps and Commercial Viability
The Minister clarified that the size of the gas reserve and its commercial viability will be assessed in the coming months. However, the confirmation of hydrocarbons in the Andaman basin is considered a major milestone, aligning with similar discoveries across the region stretching from Myanmar in the north to Indonesia in the south.
Linked to India’s Deepwater Mission
Puri highlighted that the discovery aligns with the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day address in August 2025.
Under this mission, described by PM Modi as “Samudra Manthan”, India plans extensive deepwater drilling projects to identify and exploit offshore oil and gas reserves. The initiative aims to boost energy security and reduce reliance on imports by exploring untapped resources in Indian waters.
Puri emphasized that the find marks a significant step in India’s energy journey during Amrit Kaal, as the country seeks to collaborate with global experts to accelerate deepwater exploration.
Jyoti Gupta 
Gaurav Chaudhary