28 blocks awarded under OALP Round-IX; Special DSF Round-IV launched
At the OALP Round-IX and Special Discovered Small Field signing ceremony on 15 April 2025, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said 28 blocks across eight sedimentary basins covering 1.36 lakh sq km had been awarded.
Summary
Contracts under Round-IX of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) and the Special Discovered Small Field (DSF) round were signed in the presence of Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on 15 April 2025. Under OALP Round-IX, 28 blocks across eight sedimentary basins, covering 1.36 lakh square kilometres, were awarded. The minister said India relies on imports for 88% of its crude oil and 50% of its natural gas needs. DSF Round-IV, comprising 55 discoveries across nine contract areas, was launched the same evening.
Key facts
- OALP Round-IX
- 28 blocks, eight sedimentary basins, 1.36 lakh sq km
- Date
- 15 April 2025
- Import dependence
- 88% of crude oil; 50% of natural gas
- DSF Round-IV launched
- 55 discoveries in nine contract areas
Practice MCQs 2 questions
How many exploration blocks were awarded under Round-IX of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), as stated in April 2025?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — 28
28 blocks across eight sedimentary basins, covering 1.36 lakh sq km.
According to the Petroleum Minister in April 2025, India relies on imports for about what share of its natural gas needs?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — 50%
50% of natural gas; for crude oil the figure is 88%.