Question : EXPLORATION OF CONTINENTAL SHELF

(a) The names of multinational companies which have entered or propose to enter into contract for the exploration of continental shelf;

(b) Whether any of these companies have been black listed for violating terms and conditions of the contract;

(c) If so, the details thereof;

(d) the reasons for entering into contract with such companies; and

(e) the reasons for not entrusting the job to Indian companies having expertise in the field?

MINISTER FOR OCEAN DEVELOPMENT (DR. MURLI MANOHAR JOSHI)

(a) No contract with any company, for the exploration of continental shelf, has been either finalised or awarded by the Department or any body subordinate to it.

(b) to (e) Does not arise.