Tripura government signs PML and PEL agreements with Oil India Limited to boost hydrocarbon exploration, enhance energy security, create jobs, and position the state as a strategic energy hub in Northeast India under DSF and OALP frameworks.
In a major boost to Tripura’s energy security and industrial growth ambitions, the state government on Monday signed Petroleum Mining Lease (PML) and Petroleum Exploration Licence (PEL) agreements with Oil India Limited (OIL), formally opening the door for large-scale hydrocarbon exploration and production in the state.
The agreements were signed on January 12 last, at a ceremony held at Hotel Polo Towers, Agartala. The pacts cover the DSF-II Block AA-ONDSF-TULAMARA-2018 and the OALP-III Block AA-ONHP-2018/5 located in South Tripura.
Kiran Gitte, Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Tripura, signed the deeds on behalf of the state, while Arunav Baruah, Chief General Manager, executed the agreements for Oil India Limited. Senior officials from both sides, including Sutirtha Paul, Joint Director, Industries and Commerce, were present at the event.
Oil India Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, is entering Tripura’s upstream hydrocarbon sector for the first time through this collaboration. The move is aligned with the Centre’s policy push under the Discovered Small Fields (DSF) and Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) frameworks to accelerate domestic exploration and reduce dependence on energy imports.
State officials said the partnership is expected to significantly enhance natural gas output, strengthen downstream industrial activity, and create employment and skill-development opportunities, particularly for local youth. The agreement also positions Tripura as a strategic energy hub in the Northeast, leveraging its proven gas reserves.
With over a century of operational experience in hydrocarbon exploration and production across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and other regions, OIL is expected to bring advanced technology, capital investment and sustainable operating practices to Tripura’s energy sector.
The development is being seen as a key component of OIL’s Northeast hydrocarbon roadmap and Tripura’s broader industrial policy, contributing to energy security, economic diversification and long-term inclusive growth, while supporting India’s transition towards a more self-reliant and resilient energy ecosystem.
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Tripura government signs PML and PEL agreements with Oil India Limited to boost hydrocarbon exploration, enhance energy security, create jobs, and position the state as a strategic energy hub in Northeast India under DSF and OALP frameworks.
