Alternative energy rise to impact value of Nagaland’s oil reserves, says Geology and Mining Director

DIMAPUR — Going by the current crude oil extraction rates, Nagaland’s fossil fuel reserves are projected to be depleted by 2060, according to Dr. Kenyelo Rengma, Additional Director of the Department of Geology and Mining.

Speaking at the 44th State Geological Programming Board (SGPB) meeting held in Dimapur on Friday, Dr. Rengma highlighted the rise of alternative energy sources like solar and lithium batteries, saying that the value of crude oil and gas would decline in the coming years.

In this scenario, Nagaland has a crucial window of 35 to 40 years to capitalise on its estimated 554 million tonnes of prognostic oil reserves, as assessed by the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), he said.

As of August 27, 2024, the world’s crude oil production is 81.76 million barrels per day, he added.

Furthermore, Dr. Rengma said that water scarcity, a pressing issue across India, also demands attention in Nagaland, especially in towns and villages situated in hilly areas.

India has only 4% of the world’s fresh water resources despite a population of over 1.4 billion people and the water crisis has worsened in the recent years due to climate change, which results in delayed monsoons, consequently drying out reservoirs in several regions, he said.

Stressing the need for responsible groundwater management, he said that the recent passage of groundwater rules and regulations would serve as a step towards addressing this challenge and regulating the use of subsurface water resources.

Unveiling new resources

The SGPB meeting also witnessed the inauguration of a Wavelength Dispersive-X-Ray Fluorescence (WD-XRF) machine and a Petrology Lab at the Department of Geology and Mining’s Dimapur office by Kevi John Angami, Commissioner and Secretary of Geology and Mining.

This advanced X-ray device, the first of its kind in Northeast India, will enable precise analysis of rocks, minerals, and sediments, bolstering the department’s research capabilities.

The Chemical Laboratory of Directorate of Geology and Mining, Nagaland with financial aid from National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET), New Delhi, procured the machine along with other accessories like the vibratory cup mill, pulveriser and the core splitter.

Delivering the keynote address, John Angami said that the department must now think one step ahead and adopt a proactive approach that goes beyond simply identifying mineral reserves.

The state has proven reserves of limestone and other minerals and the department must actively explore these resources for the benefit of the state, he said.

He also acknowledged ONGC for their presence at the meeting and expressed optimism for stronger cooperation in the future. Collaborations with the ONGC would be helpful for the department in assessing the potential of the state’s hydrocarbon resources as the state government is also committed to exploring oil and natural gas within the region, he said.

Navigating challenges to oil exploration

Interacting with journalists after the meeting, Group General Manager of ONGC-Jorhat, TK Mathuria said that the Naga-Schuppen belt in Nagaland is considered to be highly prospective for hydrocarbon entrapment from an exploration perspective.

However, there are various challenges hindering oil exploration in the state, including security concerns and obtaining forest clearances. Exploration operations run 24 hours a day, often in forested areas, and as such, safety and security of the drilling crew is a top priority, he explained.

Mathuria said that a total of 36 wells were previously drilled in Nagaland, 25 of which were for oil and gas. He also noted that the current value of oil is likely to decrease within the next 10 years due to the rise of alternative energy sources.

At the meeting, a presentation on “Magnetite and Associate critical metals in Naga Ophiolite Belt” was shared by Professor SK Singh, Head of Department of Geology at Nagaland University, Meriema Campus.

A presentation on “Activities of ONGC in Northeast India and prospect of oil and gas in the state” was shared by RP Jakhmola, Chief Manager of ONGC-Jorhat.