GS Question

India indeed has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, estimated to be around 400 trillion cubic feet of recoverable shale gas and 2.4 billion barrels of shale oil. These reserves hold great potential to meet the country's energy needs and reduce its dependence on imports. However, there are several issues that have prevented the tapping of this resource from being a priority on the agenda.

1. Environmental concerns: Shale gas extraction involves the controversial process of hydraulic fracturing or "fracking." This technique requires large amounts of water and the use of chemicals, which can have adverse effects on the environment. The process can lead to water contamination, degradation of air quality, and even seismic activities. Concerns about the environmental impact have led to protests and legal challenges, making the government cautious about the potential risks involved.

2. Infrastructure and technological challenges: Tapping shale oil and gas requires significant investment in infrastructure and advanced drilling technology. India's infrastructure for shale gas extraction is currently underdeveloped, and the existing drilling technology needs to be upgraded. The exploration and production of shale resources also require skilled manpower, which might be lacking in the country. These challenges increase the cost and complexity of exploiting the shale reserves, dampening the enthusiasm for their extraction.

3. Economic viability: At the current global oil and gas prices, the economics of shale extraction in India may not be favorable. Shale production is generally costlier compared to conventional oil and gas extraction methods. This, coupled with the initial high investment required for infrastructure development, makes the economic viability of shale projects uncertain. It is essential to assess the long-term profitability and market conditions before pursuing significant investments in shale extraction.

4. Regulatory framework and land acquisition: India lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework specific to shale gas extraction. The government is yet to formulate clear guidelines and regulations regarding the environmental aspects, water usage, and land acquisition for shale projects. Delays in implementing a robust regulatory framework have complicated the efforts towards exploiting shale resources.

5. Alternatives and geopolitical factors: India has been focusing on developing renewable energy sources to meet its growing energy demand and address environmental concerns. The government is promoting solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, which might divert attention and resources away from shale gas extraction. Additionally, India's geopolitical position and concerns about energy security may influence its decisions on whether to prioritize tapping shale resources or diversify energy sources through imports.

In conclusion, while India possesses considerable reserves of shale oil and gas, tapping into these resources has not been given high priority due to various factors. Environmental concerns, technological challenges, economic viability, lack of regulatory framework, and the focus on alternative energy sources are all contributing to the limited attention and investment in shale extraction. Further evaluation and careful consideration of these issues are required to determine the feasibility and sustainability of exploiting India's shale reserves.