DBT Bureau
Pune, 6 June 2026
Oil India Limited (OIL) has reported a fresh natural gas discovery in the Andaman offshore region, marking its second hydrocarbon find in the block during the ongoing exploration campaign. The discovery was made in the Vijayapuram-3 exploratory well, located around 15 km off the east coast of the Andaman Islands in the AN-OSHP-2018/1 block under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP).
Initial production testing at a depth of more than 1,900 meters in the Eocene formation confirmed the presence of natural gas through continuous flaring. The well began producing immediately after perforation, with pressure buildup indicating a productive reservoir. OIL is currently conducting gas sampling and isotope studies to determine the gas composition, calorific value, and origin.
The latest find follows the natural gas discovery at the Vijayapuram-2 well in September 2025 and strengthens the hydrocarbon prospects of the Andaman offshore basin. As part of its appraisal efforts, the company has completed reprocessing of existing 2D seismic data and acquired an additional 600 sq. km of 3D seismic data. Processing and interpretation of the seismic information are underway, after which appraisal drilling is expected to begin. The back-to-back discoveries are expected to provide valuable insights for future exploration activities in the region and could enhance the area’s potential as a new hydrocarbon-producing zone.
