The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has made four significant oil discoveries near Ashoknagar in West Bengal, according to Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Despite the potential for boosting the state’s energy sector, the development of these reserves remains on hold as ONGC awaits the state government's approval for a petroleum mining lease.
Minister Puri highlighted the importance of the discoveries, which could enhance India's domestic oil production. However, he expressed concern over the delay in obtaining necessary permissions, which hampers the timely exploration and extraction of these resources.
Ashoknagar had previously garnered attention after ONGC made its first commercial oil discovery in the state in 2020. The region is considered promising for energy development, but bureaucratic delays have stalled progress.
Minister Puri urged the state government to expedite the approval process, emphasizing that unlocking these reserves could significantly contribute to regional economic growth and energy security.
