Indian JV discovers light crude oil in Abu Dhabi, boosting India’s energy security
New Delhi, January 15. Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri on January 14 announced a major overseas hydrocarbon discovery by an Indian joint venture in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant step in India’s push towards energy self-sufficiency.
In a post on X, Puri said Urja Bharat PTE Ltd (UBPL) – a 50:50 joint venture between Indian Oil and Bharat PetroResources Ltd (a subsidiary of BPCL) – has successfully discovered light crude oil in Abu Dhabi’s Onshore Block 1. The discovery was made in two reservoirs, the Shilaif play (well XN-76) and the Habshan reservoir (well XN-79-02S).
Calling it a major milestone in Indian Oil’s expanding global upstream footprint, the Minister said the find underscores India’s growing capability to secure energy resources through international partnerships under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Puri added that the successful drilling reflects the technical expertise and commitment of the Indian teams involved and strengthens India’s long-term energy security. He said UBPL would continue work in the concession area to further assess and unlock additional hydrocarbon potential.
