Question : OIL EXPLORATION PROGRAMME

(a) whether oil exploration programme with the participation of foreign and private firms is facing serious problems;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether some foreign firms which have been awarded contracts have backed out from signing the deal during the last two years;

(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the reasons therefor, company-wise; and

(e) the likely impact thereof on the oil exploration programme in the country?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS (SHRI R.P.N.SINGH)

(a). No, Madam.

(b). Does not arise in view of (a) above.

(c) & d). During the last two years, blocks were awarded under NELP-VIII and NELP-IX rounds of bidding.

No foreign company has backed out after award of blocks for which contracts were signed under NELP-VIII and NELP-IX.

(e). Does not arise in view of (c) & (d) above.