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Evolution of Oil and Gas Exploration in India 15

Table 1.1:
Exhibit – 1 Summarized Chronology of India’s E&P Regimes

Regime Timeframe Key Highlights

Nomination Pre-1980 Acreages awarded to ONGC and OIL. Exploration
mostly in onland and shallow offshore areas.
Dominated by public sector undertakings.
Pre-NELP Exploration 1980–1995 28 blocks awarded to private parties. ONGC/OIL
Blocks had rights to participate post-discovery.

Pre-NELP Discovered Fields 1992–1993 29 fields offered to private operators under PSCs
(with ONGC/OIL holding PI). Focused on small and
medium-size discoveries.
NELP (I–IX) 1999–2012 254 blocks awarded across 9 rounds. Encouraged
private and foreign participation on par with
NOCs. Unlocked major discoveries in Rajasthan
and KG basin.

DSF (I–III) & SDSF - 2024 2015-2025 85 contract areas awarded across 3 rounds.
Designed for monetizing relinquished or marginal
fields with simple terms and revenue sharing
mechanism.
HELP (OALP I–IX) 2018–2025 172 blocks awarded under Open Acreage Licensing
Programme. Operates under unified licensing and
revenue sharing. Simplifies bidding and reduces
regulatory burden.