Driving India’s energy self-reliance

India stands at a critical juncture in its energy journey. As the world’s fastest growing large economy and the third-largest energy consumer, our demand continues to surge. Yet, India imports nearly 88% of its crude oil and over 50% of natural gas, exposing the economy to global price volatility and geopolitical risks. Achieving energy self-reliance is no longer an aspiration; it is an imperative for economic resilience and national security.

The upstream oil and gas sector holds the key to this transformation. Unlocking India’s complex geology, deepwater reserves, and mature fields requires more than conventional methods. It demands a digital-first approach fuelled by advanced technologies, a paradigm shift that can redefine exploration and enhance recovery through sustainable operations.

Cairn Oil & Gas, India’s largest private oil and gas producer, is pioneering this transformation. With a vision to contribute 50% of India’s domestic crude production, Cairn is deploying cutting-edge digital-led solutions across our projects - from Deepwater Exploration to Enhanced Oil Recovery through ASP Injection. 

Cairn’s journey begins with data, the lifeblood of modern oil and gas exploration. AI-driven reservoir modelling and predictive analytics enable us to identify hydrocarbon-rich zones with increased accuracy optimising drilling strategies. In the Krishna-Godavari Basin across the East Coast of India, we executed one of India’s first 3D Controlled Source Electro-Magnetic (CSEM) surveys, enhancing subsurface model accuracy and reducing risks, for fast-track exploration of our deepwater blocks.

In the Western onshore and offshore, Real-time data streams, fed by sensors deployed across fields, platforms, and pipelines in Rajasthan and Gujarat, fuel predictive algorithms that help plan maintenance schedule, detect anomalies, and prevent unplanned shutdowns. This results in improved asset utilisation, production, and reduced downtime. Our digital reservoir modeling, real-time production monitoring, and process digital twin technologies are enabling us to extract more from existing assets, optimise equipment performance, reduce operational costs, and enhance operational integrity.

Safety is at the core of our operational strategy. Cairn is actively leveraging AI-powered safety surveillance to monitor millions of data points - from equipment sensors to worker wearables -predicting hazards and automating emergency protocols. These surveillance systems transform safety from a reactive process to a predictive one, enabling interventions before safety incidents, creating a culture where innovation and wellbeing of our people go hand in hand.

As a conscious upstream player, we are integrating carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) technologies across our operations, in alignment with our net zero vision. These interventions keep us at the forefront of sustainable energy production, delivering long-term value through operational efficiency and championing global ESG benchmarks.

Digital transformation is the cornerstone of India’s energy future. By embracing technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), IoT, cloud computing, machine learning  and advanced analytics, the upstream operators can unlock new reserves, enhance recovery from mature fields, and reduce environmental impact.  

At Cairn, we believe technology is the bridge between aspiration and achievement. Our investments in digital innovation are not just about operational excellence; they are about shaping India’s energy future. By harnessing the power of innovative technology, we aim to reduce import-dependency, making India more resilient, and putting it firmly on the road to energy self-reliance.

The future of India’s energy lies beneath its soil and seas. With digital transformation as our compass, Cairn is committed to unlocking that potential - responsibly, efficiently, and sustainably.