Parliament Question: Production of crude oil and natural Gas in Tamil Nadu

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1895 ANSWERED ON – 09/03/2026 PRODUCTION OF CRUDE OIL AND NATURAL GAS IN TAMIL NADU 1895 SHRI R. DHARMAR: Will the Minister of PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS be pleased to state: (a) the total quantity of crude oil and natural gas produced in the State of Tamil Nadu during the last three years, year-wise; (b) the revenue accrued to the Central Government from petroleum and natural gas production in the State during the said period; (c) whether the Central Government has received representations from Government of Tamil Nadu regarding environmental concerns and impact on agricultural lands due to hydrocarbon exploration projects; and (d) steps taken by the Centeal Government to safeguard farmers’ interests while promoting hydrocarbon exploration in the State of Tamil Nadu? THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS (SHRI SURESH GOPI) (a) & (b): The quantity of crude oil & gas produced in Tamil Nadu and revenue to the Government of India from Oil and Gas production in Tamil Nadu during the last three years are given below: - 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 Crude Oil Production (MMT) 0.324 0.294 0.263 Gross Production (BCM) 1.109 1.016 1.013 Revenue to the Government of India 19.54 32.85 35.87 (in INR Cr.) Source: Directorate General of Hydrocarbon (c): Government of India has received representations from Shri M. K. Stalin, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu in June, 2021 and March, 2025 regarding environmental concerns and impact on agricultural lands due to hydrocarbon exploration projects. (d): Mere award of the blocks does not entitle the awardees to initiate drilling activities. To ensure environmental safeguards, drilling can commence only after due clearance under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 (as amended). The EIA process,which extends to both on-land and offshore areas up to 12 nautical miles, involves scientific assessment, necessary coastal regulatory zone clearances (state authority) / clearance from Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). Only upon securing these clearances / compliances under environmental guidelines, can companies begin drilling operations, with all mandated safeguards in place. Further, operators are required to adhere to the site restoration policy and associated guidelines, ensuring that acquired land is restored to its original condition following completion of operation. This operational framework reflects Government’s commitment to maintain a balance between safeguarding ecosystems and advancing long-term energy security through responsible exploration activity. ********