(a) whether oil exploration at Champang on Assam-Nagaland border has been discontinued;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the Government propose to restart oil exploration in this area;
(d) if so, the time by which it is likely to be commenced; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
Minister of State in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar)
(a)to(e): Exploration and production of hydrocarbons in Nagaland were suspended by ONGC since 1993 and 1994 respectively because of prevalent conditions. While attempts are being made to create a conducive atmosphere for resumption of exploration and production work, it is not possible to indicate a specific time frame therefor.