India needs to invest $600 billion in hydrocarbon chain: Assocham

05 Jul 2011 Evaluate

India is the fifth largest energy consumer, however, is unable to fulfill its requirements by domestic production. It imports major energy resources from Middle East and other parts of world. Though offshore exploration has given some relief, yet India remains as one of the least explored nations in the world. According to industry chamber-- Assocham-- India needs to invest $600 billion (Rs 27 lakh crore approx.) across all segments of hydrocarbon chain in next two decades to satisfy the energy requirement.

Hydrocarbons are one of the Earth's most important energy resources. Extracted hydrocarbons in a liquid form are referred to as petroleum (rock oil) or mineral oil, whereas the same in a gaseous form are referred to as natural gas. Considering the importance Assocham cited need to invest heavily in this sector over two decades. 'The country's GDP is expected to grow by over 9 per cent in coming years which is likely to pump energy consumption and the efforts to reduce demand-supply gap in oil and gas provide significant opportunities in the upstream segment,' Rawat.

Currently, India is facing demand-supply gap for coal, oil and natural gas. The private and state-owned companies who have been allocated with mining blocks in various parts of country are facing trouble to receive nod from Environment Ministry. Also, crude oil imports from the second-largest importer - Iran are perturbed, as both countries are unable to find a suitable banking partner after Reserve Bank of India cancelled the tie-up and restricted banks under Asian Clearing Union mechanism to serve as financial partner to deal with payments. Though oil minister Jaipal Reddy remains optimistic on seeking resolution as soon as possible.

It is also believed that India has good opportunity to emerge as global refining hub as many refineries in developed countries are likely to shut down over the next few years due to environmental pressures. With this investment the issues of energy starved-nation will be resolved; imports will be reduced as India is one of the largest importer of crude oil and natural gas. 

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