Mitigating Methane Emissions in India's Oil and Gas Sector

Researchers from Stanford University have shed light on the complexities of methane emissions in India's oil and gas sector, highlighting the need for targeted policies and programs to address this pressing environmental issue. The study, published in the National Academy Science Letters, explores the impact of geopolitical factors and the pandemic on crude oil production, flaring volume, and flaring intensity in India. The research emphasizes the importance of establishing a foundational framework for future policies addressing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector.

Key Takeaways:

• The study found that India's crude oil production declined by 15.4% from 2012 to 2019, while flaring volume dropped by 37.6% and flaring intensity decreased by 22.3%.
• In contrast, the post-pandemic period (2020-2022) saw a smaller decline in oil production (4%), with flaring volume and intensity changing by 4% and 8%, respectively.
• The pandemic-related operational disruptions and other factors, including an increase in flaring intensity and high imported flare intensity (5-7 m(3)/bbl) in 2022, contributed to these fluctuations.
• The research recommends initiating pilot programs, pre-feasibility, and feasibility studies to establish a foundational framework for future policies addressing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector in India.
• The study highlights the importance of addressing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, which is a significant contributor to climate change.

Statistics:

• Crude oil production in India declined by 15.4% from 2012 to 2019.
• Flaring volume dropped by 37.6% during the same period.
• Flaring intensity decreased by 22.3% from 2012 to 2019.
• In the post-pandemic period (2020-2022), oil production declined by 4%.
• Flaring volume and intensity changed by 4% and 8%, respectively, during the post-pandemic period.

Sources:

• Addressing Methane Emissions for India's Oil and Gas Sectoral Practices. National Academy Science Letters, 2025.
• National Academy Science Letters can be contacted at: Springer India, 7TH Floor, Vijaya Building, 17, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, 110 001, India (Springer - www.springer.com; National Academy Science Letters - www.springerlink.com/content/0250-541x/)
• NewsRx. Researchers from Stanford University Describe Findings in Chemicals and Chemistry (Addressing Methane Emissions for India's Oil and Gas Sectoral Practices). Global Warming Focus. August 4, 2025; p 883.