Question 3488
Which one of the following states is the largest petroleum producer in 2013-14?
Answer
Rajasthan
Why?
The correct answer is 'Rajasthan' Key Points Rajasthan: In 2013-14, Rajasthan emerged as the largest petroleum-producing state in India, contributing significantly to the country’s crude oil output. The state is home to the Barmer-Sanchore Basin, which is one of the most significant oil-producing regions in India. This basin is operated by Cairn India (now Vedanta Limited). The Mangala, Bhagyam, and Aishwarya (MBA) fields in the Barmer Basin are among the largest onshore oil fields in India, with high crude oil production levels. Rajasthan's geographical and geological formations, particularly its sedimentary basins, make it a rich reserve for hydrocarbons. The state’s contribution to petroleum production has played a pivotal role in reducing India's dependence on crude oil imports. Additional Information Assam: Assam has historically been one of the leading petroleum-producing states in India, with crude oil production being centered around the Assam-Arakan Basin. Prominent oil fields such as Digboi, Duliajan, and Naharkatiya are located in Assam. The Digboi oil field holds historical importance as it was the first oil field to be discovered in India. However, by 2013-14, its production levels were surpassed by Rajasthan due to the latter’s newer and larger discoveries in the Barmer Basin. Gujarat: Gujarat has been a significant contributor to India’s crude oil production, with major oil fields like Ankleshwar, Cambay, and Mehsana. The state also has offshore oil production in the Gulf of Cambay. Despite this, Gujarat's production volume in 2013-14 was lower than that of Rajasthan, which had become the top producer by then. Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Pradesh has limited crude oil production compared to states like Rajasthan, Assam, and Gujarat. Its contribution comes from the Krishna-Godavari Basin. The Krishna-Godavari Basin is more renowned for its natural gas reserves than for crude oil production, which is relatively smaller in scale.
