Govt to bankroll half the cost of deepwater wells, but wants its money back from winners

The Indian government is initiating the Samudra Manthan scheme to encourage deepwater exploration for hydrocarbons. This scheme will provide financial assistance up to 50 percent of the costs for exploratory wells. Eligible wells will have a cost cap, and only state-run firms can apply for funding. The government expects repayment only if successful oil or gas is discovered during the exploration.