New Delhi: Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said in late August that ONGC’s first commercial hydrocarbon discovery in the Bengal Basin at Ashoknagar has moved a decisive step closer to monetisation, marking progress in strengthening India’s energy security and domestic hydrocarbon production.

In a post on X in August, Mr Puri said that less than three months after development well AS-1Z was spudded on May 30, 2026, ONGC successfully established the flow potential of light, high-quality crude oil. He described the development as an important transition from years of exploration and perseverance towards actual production potential.

The maiden consignment of crude oil from the Ashoknagar field was flagged off for transportation to Indian Oil Corporation’s Haldia Refinery, in the presence of Ashoknagar MLA Dr Sumay Hira and ONGC’s Director of Exploration.

According to Mr Puri, the development brings West Bengal more firmly onto India’s hydrocarbon map and could provide fresh momentum to exploration and production activity in the Bengal Basin. As India seeks to reduce dependence on imported hydrocarbons, the discovery could strengthen the contribution of domestic resources to national energy requirements.

Mr Puri also said the development reflects progress in West Bengal’s hydrocarbon sector, while crediting the state’s leadership and continuing efforts to advance its energy potential.