India's Union Cabinet has approved two energy-related schemes: a Rs 84,084 crore programme for oil and gas exploration and the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana for floating solar power plants.
The oil and gas exploration scheme, called 'Samudra Manthan', will run through FY2030-31 and aims to tap India's vast offshore energy resources. The government has described it as a modern-day 'Samudra Manthan', referring to the mythological churning of the ocean.
The Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana targets 5,000 MW of solar installations on water bodies by 2030-31. The scheme is designed to promote floating solar plants, which are built on reservoirs, lakes, and other water surfaces.
Both approvals come as part of the government's broader push to boost domestic energy production and expand renewable capacity.