New posting on DGH website:

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For Information to all E&P Operators carrying out Exploration Activities in India :.

It has been decided by the competent authority that in deep water block, Wireline Flow Test (WFT) like MDT, RCI, and RDT or equivalent test will be considered for declaring a new hydrocarbon discovery as a discovery of potential commercial interest; as it is being practiced internationally. These tests should have the capability of Identifying and collecting fluid samples (Oil & Gas). Such test must establish the hydrocarbon flow potential of the reservoir(s).

However, for shallow water and onland blocks, conventional test needs to be carried out as per PSC to ascertain Potential Commercial Interest of the new hydrocarbon discoveries.

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http://www.dghindia.org/Notice.aspx

This had been a bone of contention between operators and the previous DGH. Despite progress in test methods, the old DGH was adhering to the letter of the PSCs that specified Drill Stem Tests were required to claim a discovery. DSTs are expensive and time consuming to perform.

Allowing discoveries to be claimed via Modular Dynamic Testing will have significant impact. Too bad he didn't extend it to shallow water blocks like KG-offshore.

It is clear that we have a guy with operational experience, understanding of the technology, and a sense of urgency at the DGH now, instead of a pedantic bureaucrat.