The primary role of Oil India Limited (OIL) is the exploration, production, and transportation of crude oil and natural gas. Established in 1959, OIL is a government-owned public sector undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It is one of the largest oil and gas exploration and production companies in India.

1. Exploration:
OIL is responsible for identifying potential oil and gas reserves in various regions of India. It conducts extensive geological and geophysical surveys to locate suitable areas for exploration. The company uses advanced technologies and equipment to assess the presence and viability of hydrocarbon reserves underground.

2. Production:
Once the oil and gas reserves are discovered, OIL undertakes the production operations. This involves drilling wells and extracting crude oil and natural gas from the reservoirs. The company utilizes modern drilling techniques to maximize the production rate and optimize recovery. OIL also ensures the efficient and safe extraction of hydrocarbons by adhering to strict environmental and safety standards.

3. Transportation:
After the extraction, OIL is responsible for transporting the crude oil and natural gas from the production sites to various destinations. The company operates a network of pipelines and transportation infrastructure to facilitate the movement of hydrocarbons. It ensures the smooth and timely delivery of oil and gas to refineries, processing plants, and other facilities.

4. Refining and Marketing:
While OIL's primary focus is on exploration and production, it also has a limited presence in refining and marketing activities. The company has a small refining capacity and produces various petroleum products for domestic consumption. OIL also markets its crude oil and natural gas to both domestic and international buyers.

5. Research and Development:
OIL invests in research and development activities to enhance its exploration and production capabilities. The company focuses on adopting innovative technologies, improving operational efficiency, and minimizing environmental impact. It collaborates with various research institutions and industry experts to stay at the forefront of the oil and gas sector.

Overall, Oil India Limited plays a crucial role in ensuring the availability and security of crude oil and natural gas resources in India. It contributes significantly to the energy needs of the country and strives to maintain sustainable and responsible practices in the oil and gas sector.