Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 28, Oil India Limited (OIL), a leading public sector undertaking under India’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, announced on September 26, 2025, the discovery of natural gas in its second exploratory well, Vijayapuram-2 (Loc. OAEA), located in the Offshore Andaman Block AN-OSHP-2018/1. The well was drilled under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), marking a significant milestone in the company’s exploration efforts.

The company’s official statement confirmed: “Oil India Limited (OIL), a Maharatna Company under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, is pleased to announce the reported occurrence of natural gas in its 2nd exploratory well Vijayapuram-2 (Loc. OAEA), drilled in the Offshore Andaman Block AN-OSHP-2018/1 under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP).” Initial production testing revealed intermittent gas inflow, with preliminary analysis of collected samples verifying the presence of natural gas.

Further studies, including gas isotope analysis, are underway to determine the gas’s origin and characteristics. Early assessments suggest this discovery could indicate the presence of a hydrocarbon source, migration pathway, or accumulation, which will inform OIL’s future exploration and drilling strategies in the Andaman region. The company is also conducting additional tests on higher prospects within the well to evaluate the extent of the gas find.

This discovery is the first reported hydrocarbon occurrence in the ongoing exploration campaign in the Andaman Shallow Offshore Block, highlighting its potential for future resource development. OIL is committed to keeping stakeholders informed as it progresses with detailed evaluations and testing.

The Vijayapuram-2 well discovery supports India’s efforts to enhance domestic energy production and reduce reliance on energy imports. The project is expected to contribute to economic growth by advancing exploration capabilities and fostering opportunities for regional development in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. OIL’s work in the OALP framework underscores its role in leveraging advanced technology to unlock new energy resources, aligning with sustainable energy goals and strengthening India’s energy security.