According to a press release by PIB, while addressing the ENRich 2024, KPMG’s Annual Innovation and Energy Conclave, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, underscored the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming the energy sector. With the theme “AI for Energy,” the Minister described the convergence of AI and energy as both timely and transformative, marking a critical step in shaping the industry's future. He emphasised that AI is set to revolutionise operations, drive efficiency, and accelerate the shift towards a more sustainable energy landscape. 

The Minister highlighted how AI is rapidly being adopted across industries and will be instrumental in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. 

AI and Generative AI Transform the Oil and Gas Sector 

Focusing on the oil and gas sector, Shri Puri shared how AI and generative AI (GenAI) optimise operations by leveraging real-time data and insights. He pointed out that international oil companies are investing significantly in AI to enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and contribute to the transition towards a low-carbon future. 

Shri Puri noted that the Indian Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in the energy domain also harness AI and Machine Learning (ML) to improve safety, security, and operational efficiencies at various locations. Through advanced tools like demand forecasting, customer analytics, and pricing analytics, AI is enhancing the overall customer experience in the energy sector. 

The Minister said that AI-enabled mechanisms such as deep learning are being used to analyse complex seismic data to identify potential hydrocarbon reservoirs in the upstream oil and gas sector. He also said that AI-based prediction of drilling complications and real-time optimisation of drilling parameters have proven effective in improving drilling efficiency and reducing operational costs. 

Shri Puri noted the comprehensive integration of AI tools across the energy value chain, from upstream exploration and production to midstream storage and downstream refining and distribution. He observed that this shift departs from the traditional engineering mindset that has long dominated the industry. 

He pointed to the modernisation of India’s National Data Repository, which has been upgraded to a cloud-based platform. This platform, supported by a government investment of Rs. 7,500 crore, enables instant access to seismic and production data, he noted. 

Generative AI to Supercharge Global GDP 

Citing research by J.P. Morgan, the Minister discussed the potential of generative AI to increase global GDP by $7–10 trillion over the next three years, leading to a significant boost in workforce productivity and reshaping the global economy. 

Shri Puri further emphasised that India, with its growing economy, youthful population, and thriving tech ecosystem, is poised to benefit greatly from AI. Reports suggest that AI adoption could contribute at least Rs. 33.8 lakh crore to India’s economy by 2030, he said. 

He also highlighted the success of the Universal Connectivity and Digital India initiatives, which have driven a dramatic increase in internet subscribers from 251.59 million in 2014 to 954.40 million in 2024, achieving a CAGR of 14.26%. 

The Minister applauded KPMG’s efforts to foster entrepreneurship and support the start-up ecosystem through initiatives like “ENRich Labs,” which promote innovation and co-creation with the industry. 

PIB