Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal bats for global partnerships to unlock India’s energy potential

Anil Agarwal, Chairman of Vedanta Group , has highlighted the need for global partnerships, advanced technology, and faster execution to accelerate India’s energy ambitions. 

Speaking at CERAWeek, Agarwal said the platform’s role in enabling rapid collaboration. “CERAWeek brings people together in a way few forums can. What companies might take years to achieve, they can accelerate here in just days,” he said, adding, “The energy, talent, and ‘let’s do it’ mindset here at CERA is unlike anywhere else.” 

Positioning India as a long-term growth market, he said, “India has strong geology, significant reserves, and deep technical talent. The opportunity is enormous.” 

Calling for a shift in perception around natural resources, Agarwal noted, “There was a time when developing resources was seen as negative. Today we understand how critical minerals, oil and gas are to growth and stability.” 

$5-billion investment push 

Underscoring Vedanta’s expansion plans, Agarwal said the company is looking to strengthen its oil and gas business through global collaborations. “We have come to the United States with a shopping bag ready to spend $5 Billion. We are committing around $5 billion to build assets, access technology and partner with the best in the industry,” he said. 

“We are actively looking for partners, contractors, and technology leaders to help unlock this full potential,” he added. 

Drawing from his observations in the US, Agarwal said, “What stands out in the U.S. is the energy and willingness to act. Companies are ready to move forward even when everything is not perfect.” 

Energy security concerns rise 

India imports nearly 88% of its crude oil and about half of its natural gas requirements, leaving it exposed to disruptions in key supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. 

With tensions escalating in West Asia, Iran has blocked the crucial shipping route while insurers have withdrawn coverage, effectively halting tanker movements and intensifying supply uncertainties. 

Growth targets and policy support 

Reflecting on Vedanta’s journey, Agarwal said, “We built this business over the past 12 years and today we have a strong, debt-free platform ready for further investment.” 

He reiterated ambitious growth plans, adding, “We are targeting one million barrels of production and scaling this business significantly in the years ahead.” 

Highlighting India’s evolving policy environment, Agarwal pointed to reforms by the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons. “DGH is moving from the regulatory side to a facilitator side and allowing people to start their business supporting private players,” he said. 

He also acknowledged broader policy backing, stating, “Our Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) is very business minded. He supports technology. If you look at anything being developed around the world, there is some Indian-ness there.”