Exploration of Oil and Natural Gas in Manipur: Current Status and Future Prospects

Oil and natural gas exploration plays a vital role in India’s quest for energy security. In a recent Lok Sabha session, Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam raised a crucial question regarding the status of hydrocarbon exploration in Manipur. The response from Shri Suresh Gopi, Minister of State in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, provided valuable insights into past exploration efforts, their findings, and the potential for future activities.

Historical Exploration Efforts in Manipur

Manipur has long been on the radar for potential hydrocarbon reserves. Under the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP), the Indian government allocated two exploration blocks in Manipur in 2010:

• Block AA-ONN-2009/1: 2217 Sq. Km.

• Block AA-ONN-2009/2: 1740 Sq. Km.

These blocks, located in Jiribam, Tamenglong, and Churachandpur districts, were awarded Petroleum Exploration Licenses (PELs) for four years, expiring in September 2014.

Survey and Exploration Activities Conducted

To assess the presence of oil and gas, multiple survey techniques were employed:

Despite these extensive efforts, no hydrocarbon reserves were discovered, leading to the relinquishment of both blocks on October 1, 2018.

Broader Government Surveys and Data Collection

Before NELP, the ONGC-operated Pre-NELP Block (AA-ONJ/2) included a 220 Sq. Km. portion in Manipur. However, due to lack of viable reserves, ONGC relinquished the Manipur portion on June 12, 2014.

While exploration blocks were relinquished, the government continued its assessment through broader surveys, whose data is available in the National Data Repository (NDR) for future reference:

• Airborne Gravity Gradiometry & Gravity Magnetic (AGG&GM) survey across Manipur.

• Acquisition of 5,451 Flight Line Kilometer (FLKM) 2D Seismic Data.

These surveys indicate that while current exploration blocks are inactive, Manipur’s hydrocarbon potential has not been completely ruled out.

As of now, though there are no active exploration or extraction activities in Manipur, if new investors or government policies encourage further exploration, there could be renewed efforts in the future.

Potential Benefits for Local Population and State Government

Since no discoveries were made, economic benefits have not materialized. However, if future exploration leads to commercial findings:

• Job creation and infrastructure development could boost local economies.

• Revenue sharing with the state could improve government finances.

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects could benefit communities.

Challenges and Constraints in Hydrocarbon Exploration

Geopolitical and Environmental Concerns: Local communities may resist exploration due to environmental concerns. Potential impacts on forests and biodiversity.

Technical and Geological Challenges: Difficult terrain makes seismic surveys challenging. High costs with uncertain outcomes discourage investors.

Regulatory and Policy Issues: Lack of clear policies on revenue sharing. Need for community involvement in decision-making.

The response to the Lok Sabha question shows that no commercially viable oil or gas reserves have been found in Manipur. As a result, all previously awarded exploration blocks have been relinquished and are currently inactive. However, extensive seismic data exists in the National Data Repository (NDR), which could aid future exploration efforts if renewed interest arises.