JAISALMER: Amid the ongoing global energy crisis, India's drive towards energy self-sufficiency has received a major boost from Rajasthan, as state-owned energy major Oil India Limited has successfully discovered a new gas-bearing sand in the Dandewala Field of Jaisalmer district.
Breakthrough in Gas Production
Oil India Limited achieved natural gas flow for the first time from the shallower Sanu Formation in the Dandewala Gas Field, with production estimated at nearly 25,000 standard cubic metres per day. The gas is of better quality as it does not contain much carbon dioxide.
Government Confirmation
On Saturday, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed the development through a tweet, stating that the breakthrough marks a significant milestone in India's efforts to strengthen domestic energy production and reduce dependence on imported fuel resources. He said, 'Oil India Limited achieved natural gas flow for the first time from the shallower Sanu Formation in the Dandewala Field in Jaisalmer district, with production estimated at nearly 25,000 standard cubic metres per day.'
Strategic Importance for Rajasthan
The discovery is being viewed as an important development for the hydrocarbon sector in western Rajasthan, a region that has increasingly emerged as a strategic energy hub over the past several years. Energy experts believe the successful unlocking of this new pay zone will further accelerate exploration and production activities in the desert state.
Alignment with National Goals
The achievement also aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of achieving energy security and self-reliance under the broader framework of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat.' Officials said enhanced domestic gas production would contribute towards meeting the country's rising energy demands while supporting cleaner fuel initiatives.
Technical Excellence
The company's engineers and geoscientists worked extensively to evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of the region before achieving the successful gas flow. Industry observers say the latest success could open new opportunities for further exploration in adjoining areas of the Jaisalmer Basin.
Future Prospects
Rajasthan already plays a crucial role in India's oil and gas sector, with several major hydrocarbon projects operating across the desert districts. The development has been welcomed by the energy sector as a positive step toward strengthening India's domestic production capabilities. Officials praised the perseverance, technological excellence and commitment of Team Oil India in achieving the breakthrough, describing it as another important chapter in the country's ongoing energy transformation journey.
