To bring Bihar on India’s oil map, Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) is planning to explore oil and gas in the land-locked state. ONGC plans to drill two wells in the state, of which the first is scheduled this year itself. If successful, this could bring Bihar not only on India’s oil map but also pave the way for exploration across the entire Ganga basin, extending from Bihar to Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. According to Sushma Rawat, Director of Exploration at ONGC, the company has already acquired 3D seismic data covering 300 sq km of its block in Samastipur, Bihar. Now, ONGC is preparing to drill two exploratory wells in the region, with the first drilling scheduled for this year at an estimated cost of Rs 30-35 crore. Data acquired after the drilling of the first well will pave the way for ONGC’s plans. Rawat further explained that the success of this single well could unlock the potential for further exploration across the entire basin. Furthermore, a commercial discovery could significantly impact the energy landscape and spur local industry development around the production area. Additionally, ONGC is also exploring opportunities in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, within the Ganga basin. However, the company has encountered challenges in land acquisition for drilling activities in this region. Despite these hurdles, ONGC remains committed to its exploration efforts, leveraging the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) to secure exploration blocks and advance its mission to expand India’s oil and gas reserves.