India Extends Bidding for Deepwater Oil and Gas Blocks Under OALP-X and OALP-XI to September 17, 2026

India has again extended the deadline for bids under its latest oil and gas exploration licensing rounds, with deepwater and ultra-deepwater blocks now open for applications until September 17, 2026, as per an Economic Times report. 

The extension applies to one deepwater and 12 ultra-deepwater blocks offered under the 10th round of the Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP). The round was launched in February 2025. This is the sixth extension announced since then. 

Separate Treatment for Offshore Blocks 

While the offshore blocks received more time, bidding for the remaining 12 blocks under OALP-X ended on Friday. These blocks are located on land or in shallow-water areas. 

The same pattern has been followed in the 11th OALP round, launched in March. The deadline for one deepwater and four ultra-deepwater blocks has also been moved to September 17. Bidding for the other 16 blocks in the round closed as scheduled. 

The Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) has not stated why only the deepwater and ultra-deepwater blocks have received another extension. 

Policy Changes Since Launch 

The latest decision comes after a number of changes to India's exploration regime over the past few months. 

Since February, the government has revised parts of its exploration policy, notified new regulations and worked on updated contract terms for companies participating in future licensing rounds. The changes were introduced after the launch of OALP-X. 

Focus on Domestic Output 

The extensions come at a time when India is trying to raise domestic production of crude oil and natural gas. Output from ageing fields has declined over the years, while the country's energy demand has continued to grow. 

The issue has gained attention following tensions in West Asia, including the conflict involving Iran. Higher import dependence has increased the focus on developing domestic resources, particularly in offshore areas that remain largely unexplored. 

Read More: India Adds Record 2.7 GW Rooftop Solar Capacity in Q1 2026! 

Conclusion 

Bids for deepwater and ultra-deepwater blocks under the 10th and 11th OALP rounds will now be accepted until September 17. The bidding process for onshore and shallow-water blocks in both rounds has already closed. 

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