This is an inspiring story of India’s quest for energy independence after British rule, when western powers & experts wrote off India’s hydrocarbon potential. Reliance on foreign energy sources was a major impediment to our progress as an independent nation. Against this backdrop, K D Malaviya, a minister in Nehru’s cabinet, privately visited Soviet Union for help. Thus, was born India’s ambitious plan for oil exploration & production.
A small group of geologists & scientists explored every corner of India in search of oil & gas. They overcame immense challenges to discover multiple onshore & offshore oil fields putting India on global oil map. It offers a rare insider's view of India's little-known journey to energy independence.
The author shares his journey in founding India’s oil exploration department which grew into ONGC, a Fortune 500 corporation. Alongside scientific challenges, he meticulously observes & documents local cultures, histories & legends. His travels as a field geologist across diverse terrains - from scorching deserts of Kutch to challenging landscapes of Himalayas - led to encounters with wild animals, hostile tribes, militants & insurgencies, particularly in north east India. Enriched with anecdotes, sketches, photos & maps, this narrative brings the adventure to life.
Dr. Deshpande has compiled extensive data on India’s oil exploration, production, consumption, cost & imports while forecasting future trends. Written in an engaging style, it will be enjoyed by both novices & experts alike, providing insights into challenges & triumphs of oil exploration in India.
It is my pleasure to introduce "The Oil Hunter" as the nation celebrates 75 years of independence. I am confident that this book will unveil the remarkable history of our oil exploration efforts, a largely uncharted chapter in India's journey toward modernity. The author's contribution in bringing this to a wider audience is invaluable.