HYDROCARBONS
Reliance, Essar top bidders for coal-based methane gas exploration blocks
The bidding frenzy for coal-bed methane blocks heats up as Reliance Industries and the Essar Group step into the ring. The Directorate General of Hydrocarbons has put 16 blocks up for grabs in two competitive rounds, attracting the attention of Oil India while ONGC chooses to withdraw.
Tactical investing: 6 stocks for your watchlist as the Gulf rebuild approaches; 4 with positive upside potential of up to 25%
Peace is something that has eluded West Asia a long time. For old Gulf watchers, statements and counter-statements of the kind seen in the last 48 hours are nothing new. That is probably the least to expect in times of conflict. And, when negative headlines dominate, it is tough to think rationally, especially when it comes to the stock markets. In such circumstances, it is useful to have the ability to be somewhat contrarian.
20% DME-LPG blend can cut imports by 6.3 MT, save around Rs 34,200 cr yearly: Report
India can significantly cut LPG imports by blending 20 per cent dimethyl ether, derived from coal gasification. This move could save 6.3 million tonnes of LPG annually, translating to over USD 4 billion in foreign exchange. The Bureau of Indian Standards permits this blending. Domestic DME production is currently limited, but a clear policy can unlock investments.
From uncertainty to discovery: Union Minister Hardeep Singh highlights India's 'data-first' strategy to unlock offshore energy wealth
In his posts on X, the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, highlighted that India is moving beyond blind exploration and is embracing a bold multi-client model that allows more minds to interpret, innovate, and discover, thereby decisively changing how E&P has been considered a sector of uncertainty. Taking to social media platform X, the minister shared insights from a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release and said the initiatives reflect India's steady progress and policy-driven growth. He noted that the measures are aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability while boosting investor confidence.
‘America’s petro-imperialism in Iran has already hiked US fuel cost by $20 billion’
Jeff D. Colgan highlights the economic toll of the Iran war on American households. He explains how US military actions against oil-producing nations are linked to global oil markets. The discussion covers 'petro-imperialism' versus 'petro-consumerism'. Profits from higher oil prices benefit some producers, while major oil companies face complex challenges. The shift in US oil export status influences foreign policy.
Global finance ministers warn of prolonged market impact from Middle East conflict
Global finance ministers warn the Middle East conflict will continue to impact growth and inflation. Even a lasting peace will not immediately erase these effects. Renewed fighting or disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz pose serious risks. Ministers pledge fiscally responsible domestic responses and urge all nations to avoid protectionist trade barriers.
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India's Russian oil imports more than triple to 5.3 billion euro in March
India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged in March, with purchases tripling to €5.3 billion as volumes doubled and prices rose, according to Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. The spike followed a US sanctions waiver, prompting state refiners to resume buying. Russia remained India’s top supplier, while China led overall purchases. Asian markets continued to dominate Russian oil exports.
Trump’s Hormuz blockade: What’s at stake amid global chaos and ripple risks for India
A US-led naval blockade on Iran has sharply escalated tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global oil flows, trade routes and geopolitical stability. Oil prices have surged past $100 as shipping risks, insurance costs and supply disruptions ripple across markets. While enforcement remains complex and legally contested, the bigger risk lies in escalation and second-order effects—especially for importers like India, which could face higher crude prices and tighter supply as global demand reshuffles.
Execution, order inflows to drive L&T growth; BEL rides defence push: Siddhartha Khemka
India's capital goods sector is experiencing robust growth, fueled by strong order backlogs and increasing project execution across infrastructure, power, and industrial segments. Government focus on development and manufacturing, alongside new-age tech investments, is driving demand. Companies are poised for steady revenue expansion and stable profitability, with key players like L&T and BEL showing strong prospects.
World Bank slashes 2026 Middle East growth forecast after energy sector turmoil
The World Bank has significantly lowered its 2026 growth projections for Middle Eastern economies. This comes as a direct result of the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to infrastructure have disrupted markets.
Qatar warns region 'close' to point where war escalation cannot be controlled
Trump said Monday that "the entire country" of Iran "could be taken out in one night and that night might be tomorrow" if his ultimatum to reopen the strait by 0000 GMT Wednesday was not met. Gulf countries have faced repeated drone and missile salvos from Iran over recent weeks in response to US and Israeli strikes that began at the end of February.
West Asia crisis: LPG imports run out of gas despite increase in supplies from US, Iran
India's LPG imports saw a sharp decline in March. This drop created a significant supply gap. Shipments from traditional Middle Eastern suppliers reduced considerably. However, the US and Iran stepped in to partially fill the shortfall. Domestic production also increased to meet demand. This situation highlights the impact of global events on India's energy supplies.
Major Coal India arms report drop in production in FY26
Coal India subsidiaries BCCL, CCL, WCL, and MCL saw production drop in FY26. This occurred as India increased coal reliance due to global gas supply disruptions. SECL and NCL registered growth. Experts noted potential spoilage risks with aggressive targets. CIL met contractual coal supply commitments for power plants and industry. Adequate stocks are expected for peak summer demand.
Assam polls: PM Modi claims Congress reviving bid to 'protect infiltrators'; pushes UCC
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed rallies in Assam, criticizing Congress for a divisive law and promising development. He emphasized the BJP's commitment to protecting tribal traditions and implementing the Uniform Civil Code. Modi highlighted Assam's progress in the hydrocarbon sector and plans for job creation and infrastructure investment.
Where aircraft go when they need a safe haven – or to die. As the Gulf war draws attention to ‘boneyards’, where does India stand?
Wars, pandemics, and airspace closures have created a lucrative, if niche, global industry: Specialised airports, called aircraft boneyards, that make money storing idle fleets – or performing their last rites. As the Gulf conflict forces airlines of the region to scale down operations, ET Prime maps this little-known ecosystem that is a safe haven for aircraft. What it costs, how it works, the crises that have filled these remote airports in the past. And, why does India – with the world’s third largest domestic aviation market and periodic airline-related crises – have nothing like it?
Think beyond the war? 8 stocks from different segments of the engineering and capital goods sector, with upside potential of 6 to 42%
At this point of time, anything related to the Middle East is in trouble. Unlike past Gulf wars, the whole region is affected this time, with major damage to oil and gas infrastructure. So, yes, in the short term, a number of sectors and companies will be under pressure. There is, however, another way to look at it. When the rebuilding starts (and be sure that it will start as soon as the war ends), there will be some companies that will be in advantageous positions. Some will be direct beneficiaries, while some would benefit indirectly from the rebuilding.
India's crude oil reserves can cover only 20-40 days, not several months: Petroleum Regulatory Board Secretary
India's liquid fuel reserves can last only 20 to 40 days. The government is closely monitoring the West Asia crisis and has put measures in place. There is no fossil fuel shortage in the country. India has supported neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Domestic crude oil production is a gradual process.
India diesel exports jump 20% in March amid Iran war
India boosted diesel exports significantly in March. This surge was driven by favorable economics for middle distillates. Geopolitical events in West Asia tightened supply, increasing diesel and jet fuel prices. Refiners adjusted production to capitalize on these higher margins. India also increased domestic LPG production to compensate for lost imports. Overall refined product exports saw a slight decline.
India to offer 21 oil, gas blocks in OALP-XI bid round
India is set to launch its 11th Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) round, offering 21 oil and natural gas blocks spanning over 80,000 sq km. This move comes as the previous OALP-X round, the largest ever with 25 blocks, faces extended deadlines. Bidding parameters will prioritize revenue share and work programs for different basin categories.
Who are the Houthis, Iran's allies in Yemen?
A missile from Yemen has been detected for the first time. This comes as the US and Israel are in conflict with Iran. The Houthis, based in northern Yemen, have warned of action. Their involvement could disrupt shipping in the Red Sea. This region is vital for global trade. The Houthis have previously shown missile and drone capabilities.
‘US sees the Middle East as one long war — fuelled by oil and water’
Professor Toby C. Jones details America's long-term strategy in the Middle East. He highlights the critical link between oil wealth and water management in arid Gulf nations. Jones explains how oil profits fund desalination projects, addressing domestic political challenges.
India aims to attract USD 100 bn in investment, expand exploration acreage: Srikant Nagulapalli DGH
India is targeting significant growth in its energy sector. The nation plans to attract USD 100 billion in investments by 2030. Exploration acreage will expand to one million square kilometers. These ambitious goals aim to boost domestic oil and gas production. Policy reforms and improved data access are key to attracting international investors to India's promising energy landscape.
Drill India drill: Iran war triggers India’s boldest hunt for oil
The Iran war has pushed countries to prioritise energy self-reliance, with India accelerating an already underway shift toward boosting domestic production. The move is not new but builds on policy momentum from 2025, now fast-tracked due to geopolitical risks and supply disruptions.
ONGC floats $20 billion global tender for deepwater rigs
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation plans a massive oil exploration program. The company will spend between $18 to $20 billion to hire deep-water drilling rigs. This initiative aims to boost India's energy security. ONGC is seeking a mix of drill ships and semi-submersible rigs for up to five years. The company is accelerating its deep-water activities.
These large-caps have ‘strong buy’ & ‘buy’ recos and an upside potential of more than 25%
It might be too early to say anything definitively, but we have the first indication that there is some pressure on US President Trump to end the Gulf war and that he might act on it. The problem, however, is that wars are not tariffs – they are not something that can be changed depending on one person's mood. So, while being optimistic, it would still be prudent to be cautious. Also, given that the impact of the disruption caused by the war in the last one month will be visible in the Q4 numbers, it would be worthwhile to think before placing all your bets on one tweet.
Trump's Iran war oil shield is cracking
America's oil wealth, once thought to be a shield against energy shocks, is proving fragile. A regional war has disrupted global oil flows, pushing prices up significantly. While the US is a major producer, increased exports to meet global demand are tightening domestic supplies, leading to higher gasoline prices. The war's duration poses political risks for the US.
Argentine LPG supplies jump over 2-fold in just 3 months
Argentina is boosting LPG shipments to India. This comes as India faces shortages due to the West Asia conflict. Argentina sent 50,000 tonnes in early 2026, more than double the previous year. The South American nation is set to grow its share in India's LPG market. This is part of expanding bilateral trade and cooperation.
L&T executive sees stable operations in West Asia despite tensions
Larsen & Toubro's West Asia projects are mostly running as usual despite regional crises. Over ninety-five percent of sites are unaffected. The company faces challenges with supply chains and insurance costs. L&T continues to monitor the situation closely. Employee safety remains a top priority. Diversified operations across countries and segments provide resilience.
Gulf's decades-long strategy of sporting investment rocked by Mideast war
The ongoing war in the Middle East has halted the Gulf's ambitious plans to host major international sporting events. Millions of dollars invested in bringing global competitions like football and Formula One to the region are now at risk. This disruption has caused significant reputational damage.
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