Oil India Confirms Second Offshore Gas Discovery Near Andaman Islands

According to the company, the Sri Vijayapuram-3 well was drilled in waters measuring 355 meters in depth and penetrated more than 1,900 meters into the Eocene geological formation. The discovery follows a similar natural gas strike at the Vijayapuram-2 well in September 2025, further confirming the presence of a working petroleum system in the offshore basin.

The latest find is being viewed as an important milestone in India's efforts to expand domestic energy resources and reduce dependence on imported fuels. Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri welcomed the development, describing it as part of the country's broader drive toward energy self-reliance.

While the discovery has reinforced expectations about the region's resource potential, its commercial viability will depend on additional appraisal and evaluation activities. Industry experts and stakeholders will closely monitor further exploration efforts, particularly given the challenges associated with the basin's remote location and the infrastructure required for future development.

The second consecutive gas discovery near the Andaman Islands represents a notable step forward in unlocking India's frontier energy reserves. If subsequent assessments prove successful, the find could play a significant role in supporting the nation's long-term energy security ambitions.