Major Natural Gas discovery in Andaman Basin set to transform India’s Maritime landscape

NEW DELHI: India’s maritime sector is poised for a transformative leap following a major natural gas discovery in the Andaman Basin. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) informs that the offshore reserves, with a high methane content of 87%, promise to bolster the country’s clean energy ambitions and expand the scope of maritime logistics.

Officials highlighted that the discovery will serve as a catalyst for port-led economic development, enabling greater LNG transport, fostering the use of green shipping fuels, and opening fresh opportunities in the nation’s Blue Economy framework.

The basin is expected to emerge as a crucial offshore energy hub, providing momentum to India’s strategy of achieving Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) energy security. By reducing dependence on conventional fuels and imports, the reserves will help strengthen the maritime sector’s resilience and position India as a future-ready global player in sustainable shipping.

Industry observers say the development could also accelerate India’s transition toward decarbonisation of its maritime ecosystem while spurring investment in associated infrastructure, including LNG terminals and bunkering facilities.

MoPSW underscored the move as a “significant stride” towards a cleaner, more competitive, and environmentally sustainable Maritime India.