2026 HYDROCARBON POLICY
Deep-sea gas becomes costlier as government raises price ceiling
The government has raised the ceiling price for gas from difficult fields such as Reliance-BP’s KG-D6 block to $9.89 per MMBtu for October 2026-March 2027, from $8.90 earlier. Meanwhile, APM gas from ONGC and Oil India’s legacy fields remains effectively capped at $7 per MMBtu, with new-well gas eligible for a 10% premium up to $7.70.
The most uncertain sector also pays the most to wait. Watchlist for patient investors: 5 stocks with upside potential of up to 25%
There are some interesting contrarian bets in the market. But going contrarian, or buying what everyone else is running away from, is not to be done casually. Done wrong, it is just recklessness. It becomes a sensible move only when there is a solid, logical reason behind it. So, the real question is not whether some companies are beaten down. The question is whether there is a good reason to buy them anyway.
Govt extends OALP-X, XI bid deadline again to Nov 15
India's government has extended bid deadlines for offshore oil and gas exploration blocks. Companies now have until November 15, 2026, to submit their bids. This extension applies to deepwater and ultra-deepwater acreage under OALP-X and OALP-XI. The move is reportedly linked to the new Samudra Manthan National Offshore Exploration Scheme. This scheme aims to boost domestic hydrocarbon reserves and reduce import reliance.
‘People’s welfare first’: Russia’s Alipov praises India’s BRICS presidency ahead of Putin visit
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov praised India’s “people-centred” approach to its BRICS presidency, saying the grouping must ensure Global South and East interests shape global decisions. Ahead of Vladimir Putin’s second India visit in under a year, Alipov highlighted trade, energy, healthcare, AI and potential cooperation in urea, aircraft and nuclear energy.
Hardeep Puri hails Assam Hydrocarbon Policy as landmark initiative; policy comes into force
Welcoming the policy, Puri said the initiative would put the Northeast on the path of fast-paced development while helping unlock Assam’s untapped hydrocarbon potential.
Assam Cabinet clears 8 new co-districts, youth welfare department, new labour rules
Assam Cabinet meeting has approved operationalization of 8 new Co-Districts with its head quarter at a central location, to be identified by District Commissioners in consultation with the Guardian Minister of the concerned District.
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Some BS-III vehicles may need rubber parts replaced for E20 fuel, says Gadkari
Older vehicles generally show no significant performance changes with E20 fuel. Some BS-III vehicles manufactured before 2016 may require minor part replacements. Extensive studies have confirmed the compatibility of vehicles with the new fuel blend. Automobile manufacturers continue to honor warranty claims for vehicles using E20. The government has implemented the E20 fuel program through a phased and scientifically validated approach.
Vedanta Oil & Gas shares fall over 3% after firm discloses two legal matters involving ONGC, GoI
Vedanta Oil & Gas share slipped on Wednesday after the company disclosed two legal matters involving the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons and ONGC. While DGH has sought about $35 million plus interest over OALP blocks, ONGC is pursuing enforcement of a $37 million arbitral award before the Delhi High Court.
Why Delhi needs to take a deeper breath
Delhi's new electric vehicle policy aims to boost clean mobility and reduce pollution. The policy offers incentives and mandates for electric two and three-wheelers. However, it faces challenges from external vehicle traffic and non-exhaust emissions. Achieving clean mobility requires integrating mass public transport and promoting non-motorised options. Private vehicles should not remain the primary travel choice for all journeys.
RBI MPC member Nagesh Kumar flags import dependence, Gulf remittances, El Nino risks in minutes
India faces significant economic risks from the West Asia conflict, including potential disruptions to oil and fertilizer imports via the Strait of Hormuz and reduced remittances from the Gulf. El Niño-induced monsoon failures also pose a threat to agriculture. Despite these vulnerabilities, the nation's strong foreign exchange reserves and fiscal space offer some resilience. Growth projections have been tempered, highlighting the need for careful economic management.
Elon Musk vs Sam Altman: AI control, not courtroom clash, is the bigger battle
Elon Musklosing his case againstSam Altmanreignites debate over AI governance, safety and whether institutions can keep pace with rapid advances in artificial intelligence.
‘It’s not like a lockdown is going to take place tomorrow’: Puri dismisses fears after PM Modi’s fuel-saving push
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri reassured citizens that no lockdown-like restrictions are imminent despite Prime Minister Modi's call for fuel conservation amid the West Asia crisis. Puri asserted India's energy supplies remain stable, with significant domestic LPG production increases and substantial oil and LPG reserves in place.
West Asia war has a crude lesson for Indian economy: Cut the oil imports
The West Asia conflict has exposed India's vulnerability to energy shocks, prompting calls to reduce crude oil imports and boost energy security. An RBI MPC member stressed the need for increased domestic exploration and a faster transition to alternative energy sources to sustain economic growth amidst rising import bills and inflation.
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.
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.
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.
For energy security, India plans 6 MMT reserve boost, deepwater exploration & refining hub drive
India is launching a robust energy security strategy. This plan includes a national deepwater exploration mission named Samudra Manthan. Strategic oil reserves will be increased to ensure a 90-day buffer. Efforts are also underway to make India a global refining and petrochemicals hub. These proposals are expected to receive approval soon.
India needs $145 bn annual energy investment to align growth with climate goals: Wood Mackenzie
India requires $145 billion annually in energy investments to balance economic growth with net-zero goals by 2035. Strategic focus on power generation, storage, and grid modernisation is crucial. While renewables are key, hydrocarbon fuels remain vital for near-term energy security, with a growing reliance on oil imports.
From Petrotech to OPEC Dialogues to India Energy Week, India reframes global energy engagement
India's global energy engagement has evolved from the hydrocarbons-focused Petrotech to the integrated India Energy Week, set for January 27-30, 2026, in Goa. This platform now encompasses all energy forms, driving dialogue and innovation across the value chain, reflecting India's dual priorities of energy security and transition.
Budget 2026: Small tax fixes & a big ‘GIFT’ could power India’s energy ambitions
Union Budget of India 2026: Amid geopolitical tensions, volatile prices, and the energy transition, Budget 2026 may steer cross-border investments, tax rules, and the Indianisation of operations, while boosting incentives under HELP and GIFT City for long-term local presence.
Oil’s fair in love and war: How Venezuela, the Arctic and Greenland are rewriting the global energy map
As 2026 begins, oil is no longer just a traded commodity — it is once again a weapon of geopolitics. From Venezuela’s re-emergence as a strategic battleground to the Arctic’s thawing frontiers and Greenland’s growing importance, global powers are moving to secure future energy and resource dominance.
Oil, gas block auction bid round deadline extended for third time
India has extended the bid submission deadline for its latest oil and gas block auction. Potential investors now have until February 18, 2026, to submit their bids. This is the third extension for the OALP-X licensing round. The government aims to boost domestic oil and gas production with this significant acreage offering.
Vedanta demerger by March; Anil Agarwal says five firms can become 'five Vedantas'
Vedanta Ltd is splitting into five independent companies by March 2026. This move aims to boost growth for each business. Shareholders will receive shares in the new entities. Each company will have its own board and management. Aggressive capital spending and dividends will continue. Vedanta plans significant expansion across its zinc, aluminium, oil and gas, and steel businesses.
Bihar election results: How it may impact stock market; 5 stocks to watch
Early Bihar election trends point to a strong NDA win, easing political uncertainty and reinforcing expectations of continuity in policy and execution. MarketSmith India says markets may see brief volatility before refocusing on earnings, reforms, capex momentum and sector-specific drivers.
ONGC, OIL aim to launch Rs 3,200 cr stratigraphic drilling campaign next year
ONGC and Oil India Ltd. plan a Rs 3,200 crore stratigraphic drilling campaign in early 2026 to discover new hydrocarbon reserves and reduce import reliance. Four deepsea wells will be drilled with technical expertise from BP. The government will compensate ONGC and OIL for the drilling costs, aiming to boost domestic production and cut the USD 150 billion import bill.
Unilateral environmental measures like carbon tax hamper equitable world trade: Commerce Secy
India raised objections to the EU's carbon tax, claiming it undermines fair global trade principles. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal stressed that the Global South faces challenges in balancing sustainable development and responding to measures like the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), effective from 2026. Barthwal advocated for increased cooperation on food security, and better market access for MSMEs. Additionally, he emphasized reducing remittance costs to bolster developing nations' economic growth, highlighting the importance of special and differential treatment in maintaining policy space for these nations.
View: India's path to developed economy status hinges on natural resource management
India's natural resources sector faces import challenges but holds potential for growth and self-sufficiency. Strategic management, revenue reinvestment, and resource diversification can drive economic development and sustainability, aligning with global trends towards renewable energy and efficient resource utilization.
India expresses serious concerns in WTO meet over unilateral protectionist measures
India expresses serious concerns at WTO meeting over trade protectionist measures and their impact on exports to the EU. Issues raised include carbon tax, deforestation regulation, and the need for flexibility in WTO agreements. Speaking at a session on sustainable development and policy space for industrialisation, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said developing countries require flexibility in the existing WTO (World Trade Organization) agreements to overcome the constraints faced by them in their industrialisation.
EU carbon tax to hurt global trade, not to stop carbon leakage, says think tank
The think tank in its report claimed that the real reasons the EU introduced CBAM are to protect uncompetitive local industries from cheaper imports; to earn considerable revenue to fund its budget; and to operationalize the trillion-dollar subsidy initiative. "If this disrupts world trade, the EU is okay. The EU needs this money to continue to provide substantial subsidies to its firms and farmers. The new regulations can provide a full share of the EU budget," Srivastava said.
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