India’s oil and gas industry plays a pivotal role in powering the nation’s economy, supporting both industrial growth and day-to-day energy needs. With rising demand for petroleum products and growing infrastructure, several oil companies have emerged as industry leaders. These firms are involved in exploration, refining, distribution, and marketing, and have made significant contributions to both domestic supply and global trade.
From public sector giants to private players, each company plays a vital role in ensuring energy security and innovation. Understanding the Indian oil sector offers valuable insight into the country’s energy dynamics and the forces shaping its future.
In this blog, we will take a look at Top 20 Oil Companies in India.
Oil Sector in India
Oil industry in India is an important sector of the Indian economy in terms of growth and energy security. It includes exploration and production (upstream activities), transportation and storage (midstream processes) and refining, distribution and retail (downstream operations).
The market is dominated by major public sector companies such as IOCL, ONGC, and BPCL in addition to the private players such as Reliance and Nayara Energy. India relies heavily on importation of crude oil as the third-largest consumer of oil in the world. The government is also encouraging diversification with renewable energy, biofuels and expansion of natural gas.
Other recent efforts are directed at improving capacity upgrades, strategic petroleum reserves and cleaner fuels in order to have a sustainable energy development and long term reduction in carbon emission.
List of Top 20 Best Oil Companies in India
1. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
- Headquarter: New Delhi, Delhi
- Contact: 1800-2333-555
- Website: www.iocl.com
- Founded: 1959
Indian Oil Corporation is the biggest commercial oil company in India and mostly deals with refining, pipeline transport, and marketing of petroleum products. It is also involved in natural gas and petrochemical productions, playing a significant role in the Indian oil sector.
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) manages more than 32000 fuel filling stations and 11 refineries in India. The company is a key player in energy security of India, and a pacesetter in energy solutions research and development. More than 130 million households utilize its Indane LPG brand.
With an extensive pipeline network and focus on green fuels, Indian Oil continues to lead India’s downstream oil and gas industry. It is a government-owned Maharatna company.
Average Salary: ₹6.5–₹10 LPA
Services Offered:
- Petroleum Refining & Marketing
- Natural Gas Distribution
- Petrochemicals Production
- Aviation Fuel Services
- Alternative & Renewable Energy Solutions
- LPG Bottling & Distribution
- Pipeline Transportation
- Overseas Energy Trading
2. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)
- Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Website: www.bharatpetroleum.in
- Founded: 1952
One of India’s most prosperous oil refining and marketing firms is Bharat Petroleum Company Limited. It operates large refineries in Mumbai, Kochi and Bina through its subsidiary BORL.
BPCL trades in petroleum products through a wide network of retail outlets of petroleum products and LPG distributors under the brand name Bharatgas. It is a huge force in the provision of aviation fuel and is also featured in natural gas and petrochemicals.
As a Maharatna PSU, BPCL has innovations and an efficient supply chain, which are customer-oriented. Due to the increasing focus on renewables and sustainable fuels, BPCL is also transforming to be able to support the future energy needs of India.
Average Salary: ₹6–₹9 LPA
Services Offered:
- Fuel Refining & Retailing
- LPG & CNG Distribution
- Aviation Fuel Services
- Lubricants & Grease Manufacturing
- Gas Sourcing & Marketing
- Petrochemicals & Specialty Products
- Industrial Fuel Supply
- Digital Fuel Management Solutions
3. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL)
- Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Contact: +91-22-22863900
- Website: www.hindustanpetroleum.com
- Founded: 1974
HPCL is a major PSU oil and gas enterprise involved with refining, marketing, and distribution of oil products. It runs refineries at Mumbai and Visakhapatnam and sells fuels, lubricants, and LPG via a large retailer network, making it a notable reference for those exploring how to start a dealership business in India.
HPCL also deals in pipeline business and project development, such as joint ventures, HPCL Rajasthan Refinery. It has brands such as the “Turbojet” and the “HP Gas” and caters to a wide market including industrial and domestic consumers.
HPCL consistently puts money in technology upgrades and sustainability. It is a Maharatna PSU in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and it plays a significant role in the energy infrastructure of India.
Average Salary: ₹5.5–₹8.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Oil Refining
- Retail & Commercial Fuel Distribution
- LPG & Lubricants Distribution
- Aviation Turbine Fuel Services
- Petrochemical Manufacturing
- Project Engineering & Consultancy
- Pipeline Infrastructure
- R&D and Renewable Initiatives
4. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
- Headquarter: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Contact: 011-26750998
- Website: www.ongcindia.com
- Founded: 1956
ONGC is the leading exploration and production (E&P) company of India, which contributes more than 70 percent of crude oil and about 60 percent of the natural gas production of India.
ONGC is a Maharatna PSU with its headquarters in Dehradun, and it works along the upstream oil and gas operations. It operates globally with ONGC Videsh and holds a number of strategic fields and assets. The company is also present downstream through its subsidiaries companies such as MRPL and HPCL.
ONGC is still engaged in searching offshore and onshore reserves and has invested in deepwater drilling, improved oil recovery, and sustainable development in order to give long-term energy security to India.
Average Salary: ₹7–₹11 LPA
Services Offered:
- Exploration and Production of Natural Gas and Crude Oil
- Offshore & Onshore Drilling
- LNG Marketing
- Oilfield Services & Support
- Geological Surveys & Seismic Data Processing
- Refining & Petrochemical Subsidiaries
- Energy Transition Projects (Wind, Solar, Hydrogen)
- Global E&P Operations
5. Reliance Industries Limited (Oil & Gas Division)
- Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Contact: +912235555000
- Website: www.ril.com
- Founded: 1966
The Oil & Gas division of Reliance Industries is a large and privately held Indian participant in the hydrocarbon industry. It runs the biggest refining complex in the globe at Jamnagar, Gujarat with capacity of more than 1.2 million barrels per day.
This firm is involved in exploration, mining, refining, and trading of oil products, making it a notable example for those seeking trading business in India. It has introduced various digital and energy firsts in India. The upstream business of Reliance consists of offshore gas fields such as KG-D6.
The company is also shifting to cleaner energy by partnering and investing in green hydrogen, solar and renewables. Reliance has remained at the forefront of technological and operational excellence in the Indian privately owned energy industry.
Average Salary: ₹6–₹10 LPA
Services Offered:
- Oil & Gas Exploration and Production
- Natural Gas Marketing
- Refining & Petrochemical Manufacturing
- LNG Trading
- Gasification & Coal Bed Methane Projects
- Fuels Retailing & Mobility Services
- Alternative Energy Development
- Energy Storage & Carbon Management
6. Oil India Limited (OIL)
- Headquarter: Duliajan, Assam
- Contact: +91-0374-2800427
- Website: www.oil-india.com
- Founded: 1959
The second-biggest state-owned exploration and production firm in India is called Oil India Limited. It was founded in 1959 and has its main office in Duliajan, Assam.
OIL focuses on discovering and producing crude oil and natural gas in the onshore and offshore regions of India and abroad. It also engages in pipeline transportation and downstream activities. With operations in several Northeast Indian states, it plays a key role in regional development.
OIL is a Navratna company and holds strategic assets in countries like Russia, Libya, and Venezuela through international ventures. It emphasizes technology-driven exploration and sustainable energy initiatives.
Average Salary: ₹6.5–₹9.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Oil & Natural Gas Production
- Oilfield Services & Infrastructure
- Pipeline Transportation
- Seismic Survey & Exploration
- Geothermal & Alternative Energy Projects
- Oil & Gas Asset Management
- Overseas Exploration Ventures
- Gas Compression & Injection Services
7. Nayara Energy
- Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Contact: 02266121800
- Website: www.nayaraenergy.com
- Founded: 1989
Nayara Energy, a significant privately held downstream energy corporation in India, was originally known as Essar Oil. At Vadinar, Gujarat, it includes one of the biggest single-site refineries in India, capable of producing 20 million metric tons annually.
It also has a growing chain of over 6,000 fuel retail outlets and plans to grow by a huge margin. Nayara Energy has interests in the refining, retail, marketing, and supply chain logistics, supported by advanced supply chain management software to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
It is investigating petrochemicals and renewables and has global shareholders. Nayara Energy is an efficient and customer-focused firm that aims at becoming a next-generation energy company in India.
Average Salary: ₹5.5–₹8.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Oil Refining
- Petroleum Products Marketing
- Retail Fuel Network
- Export of Petroleum Products
- Lubricants & Specialty Oils
- Supply Chain & Logistics Solutions
- Fuel Automation & Smart Retailing
- Sustainability & Renewable Integration
8. GAIL (India) Limited
- Headquarter: New Delhi, Delhi
- Contact: +91 11 26182955
- Website: www.gailonline.com
- Founded: 1984
Among India’s biggest natural gas corporations, GAIL handles natural gas transmission, distribution, processing, and marketing.
It is a Maharatna PSU that transports and distributes gas through more than 13,000 km of gas pipelines and is a key player in LPG transmission as well as petrochemical production. As one of the major manufacturing companies in Delhi, GAIL plays a vital role in driving industrial growth and clean energy initiatives from the capital region. GAIL is a major force behind India’s transition to a gas-based economy and advocates for the expansion of the CGD (City Gas Distribution) system.
It is also investing in renewable power, LNG supply and hydrogen technologies. GAIL is central to the clean energy strategy and infrastructure of India with its domestic and global presence in the gas market.
Average Salary: ₹7–₹11 LPA
Services Offered:
- Natural Gas Transmission & Distribution
- Petrochemical Manufacturing
- LNG Import & Marketing
- City Gas Distribution (CGD)
- Gas Processing & Fractionation
- Compressed Biogas (CBG) Projects
- Gas Trading & Pricing Services
- Energy Infrastructure Development
9. Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL)
- Headquarter: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Contact: 044-24349833
- Website: https://cpcl.co.in/
- Founded: 1965
Located near Manali, Tamil Nadu, Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited is a subsidiary of the Indian Oil Corporation and operates one of the most significant refineries in South India. As one of the prominent manufacturing companies in Chennai, CPCL plays a vital role in supporting the nation’s energy infrastructure.
It was set up in 1965 and it deals in the refining of crude oil to produce high quality petroleum products. In southern India, CPCL supplies petrochemical feedstocks, lubricants, and fuels. It also yields LPG, bitumen and wax.
The company is a crucial player in fulfilling the regional fuel requirement and has its operations with a high priority on safety, environmental regulations, and innovation. To meet the future energy demands, CPCL is in the process of increasing the capacity and upgrading its facilities.
Average Salary: ₹5.5–₹8 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Refining & Processing
- Production of Fuels, Lube Base Stocks, and Waxes
- Feedstock Supply to Petrochemical Units
- Bitumen & Fuel Oil Manufacturing
- Aviation Fuel Supply
- Hydrocarbon Blending
- Waste Management & Effluent Treatment
- Environment-Friendly Refinery Operations
10. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL)
- Headquarter: Mangalore, Karnataka
- Contact: +91-824-2883192
- Website: www.mrpl.co.in
- Founded: 1988
MRPL is a subsidiary company of ONGC and it has a 15 MMTPA refinery in Mangalore, Karnataka which is a state of the art refinery. It refines a broad range of crude oils and output products are fuels, petro chemicals and specialty items.
MRPL is also an exporter with good ESG engagements. The corporation has a reputation for technological fineness and combination with petrochemical units. It serves the domestic and foreign markets and is a major component of the southern oil infrastructure.
MRPL is in the process of expanding its value chain by diversifying and modernizing and plays an important role in refining strategy of ONGC.
Average Salary: ₹5.5–₹8.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Oil Refining
- Petroleum Product Manufacturing
- Aromatic Hydrocarbon Production
- LPG, Naphtha & Diesel Supply
- Lube Base Stock & Bitumen Production
- Export of Petroleum Products
- Energy Conservation & CSR
- Environmental Compliance & Green Fuel Development
11. Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL)
- Headquarter: New Delhi, Delhi
- Contact: 91-11-46074607
- Website: www.iglonline.net
- Founded: 1998
Indraprastha Gas Limited is one of the foremost city gas distribution companies in India that was established as a joint venture among GAIL, BPCL, and the Government of Delhi.
It provides compressed natural gas (CNG) to fuel vehicles and piped natural gas (PNG) to be used domestically, commercially and industrially. IGL makes significant contributions to ensuring that pollution in the Delhi NCR is reduced by encouraging the use of cleaner fuels. It boasts a vast network of CNG stations and pipelines.
Safety, efficiency, and customer service being its guiding principles, IGL is not only spreading its wings to the adjacent areas, but also helping India achieve its ambition of a gas-based economy.
Average Salary: ₹5–₹7.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Supply
- Piped Natural Gas (PNG) Distribution
- City Gas Infrastructure Development
- Metering & Billing Services
- Safety & Maintenance Services
- Green Mobility Promotion
- Residential, Industrial & Commercial Gas Services
- Gas-based Energy Solutions
12. Petronet LNG Limited
- Headquarter: New Delhi, Delhi
- Contact: +91 – 11 – 71233525
- Website: www.petronetlng.in
- Founded: 1998
Petronet LNG is India’s top importer and regasification firm for liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is being promoted by GAIL, ONGC, IOCL and BPCL and has major terminals at Dahej (Gujarat) and Kochi (Kerala).
The business is essential to enhancing India’s LNG infrastructure and energy security. Petronet supplies LNG to power, fertilizer, and industrial as well as city gas. It has one of the biggest terminals in South Asia at Dahej.
As it looks to increase capacity and venture into new markets, Petronet LNG facilitates the move to cleaner fuels. The company also believes in sustainable development and using LNG to decrease carbon emissions.
Average Salary: ₹6.5–₹9 LPA
Services Offered:
- LNG Import & Regasification
- Storage & Handling of LNG
- Supply to Power & Fertilizer Plants
- LNG for Transportation
- LNG Terminal Operations (Dahej, Kochi)
- Technical Consultancy in LNG
- Gas Value Chain Integration
- Energy Efficiency & Sustainability Projects
13. Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd.
- Headquarter: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Contact: 033-22225218
- Website: www.balmerlawrie.com
- Founded: 1867
Balmer Lawrie is a diversified public sector enterprise with significant operations in lubricants through its “Balmerol” brand. Founded in 1867 and headquartered in Kolkata, it manufactures and markets industrial and automotive lubricants and greases.
It works with chemicals, refinery packaging, logistics, and travel in addition to lubricants. The company’s lubricant division supports sectors like steel, railways, defense, and automotive. In addition, Balmer Lawrie provides contract manufacturing and blending services.
As a Mini-Ratna company, it is known for its quality, innovation, and legacy. The company continues to evolve by modernising plants and strengthening its presence in the Indian oil sector.
Average Salary: ₹4.5–₹7 LPA
Services Offered:
- Industrial & Automotive Lubricants
- Logistics & Warehousing Solutions
- Travel & Ticketing Services
- Grease Manufacturing & Packaging
- Barrel & Drum Packaging
- Cold Chain Logistics
- Chemical Trading & Manufacturing
- Contract Blending Services
14. Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL)
- Headquarter: Numaligarh, Assam
- Contact: 0361-2800165
- Website: www.nrl.co.in
- Founded: 1993
A key component of the oil infrastructure in the Northeast, the Numaligarh Refinery is situated in Assam and is a subsidiary of Oil India Limited. It was put into service in 2000 and has a 3 MMTPA refining capacity. It is now undergoing a significant expansion.
NRL exports paraffin wax to over 25 countries and manufactures premium fuels, wax, and petrochemicals. It supports regional development through its product pipeline network and socio-economic initiatives.
NRL is also engaged in green energy projects like bio-refineries. With its sustainable business model and technological integration, NRL plays a crucial role in India’s northeastern energy development.
Average Salary: ₹5.5–₹8 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Oil Refining
- Paraffin Wax Manufacturing & Export
- Fuel Production (MS, HSD, ATF, LPG)
- Petroleum Product Marketing
- Bio-Refinery Projects (Ethanol from Bamboo)
- Pipeline Transportation
- Environmental Management
- North-East Regional Fuel Distribution
15. Assam Gas Company Limited (AGCL)
- Headquarter: Dibrugarh, Assam
- Contact: 00-91-374-2800556/2800202/2800221
- Website: www.assamgas.org
- Founded: 1962
The state-owned Assam Gas Company was founded in 1962 and is in charge of the distribution and transportation of natural gas in Assam. Headquartered in Dibrugarh, it operates over 1,200 km of pipelines supplying gas to industries, tea estates, and domestic users.
AGCL is instrumental in promoting cleaner energy in Northeast India by delivering piped gas for industrial and domestic use. It also plays a key role in city gas distribution through its joint ventures.
The company’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and infrastructure development makes it a key regional player in India’s energy diversification and environmental sustainability.
Average Salary: ₹4.5–₹6.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Natural Gas Transmission & Distribution
- Industrial Gas Supply
- Gas Metering & Regulation
- Gas Pipeline Infrastructure
- Domestic Piped Gas Services
- Energy Consultancy
- Joint Ventures for City Gas Distribution
- Green Energy Promotion in Northeast India
16. Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL)
- Headquarter: Bina, Madhya Pradesh
- Website: www.borl.in
- Founded: 1994
In Bina, Madhya Pradesh, BORL, a division of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, runs a cutting-edge refinery. With plans for development, the refinery was put into service in 2011 and has a capacity of 7.8 MMTPA.
BORL is known for its integrated refinery and pipeline infrastructure that supplies petroleum products across northern and central India. Initially a joint venture with Oman Oil Company, it is now fully controlled by BPCL.
BORL is pivotal in meeting regional fuel demands efficiently. With continuous modernization and environmental compliance, BORL supports BPCL’s refining capacity and strengthens India’s downstream oil network.
Average Salary: ₹5.5–₹8 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Refining & Fuel Production
- Retail & Industrial Supply of MS, HSD, LPG
- Strategic Pipeline Operations
- Production of Sulphur, Naphtha, Petcoke
- Terminal & Tank Farm Operations
- Energy Infrastructure Maintenance
- Environmental Compliance & Safety Systems
- Refinery Expansion Projects
17. HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited (HRRL)
- Headquarter: Jaipur, Rajasthan
- Website: www.hrrl.in
- Founded: 2013
HPCL Rajasthan Refinery is a joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum and the Government of Rajasthan. The greenfield refinery-cum-petrochemical complex, which is now being built and will have a capacity of 9 MMTPA, is situated at Pachpadra, Barmer.
Once operational, HRRL will be a major hub for refining and petrochemical production in western India. The project aims to boost industrial growth in Rajasthan and reduce petroleum imports by increasing domestic refining capacity.
HRRL incorporates modern technologies for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. It marks a strategic move by HPCL to expand its refining footprint and contribute to regional development.
Average Salary: ₹5–₹7.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Crude Oil Refining (Under Development)
- Petrochemical Complex Services
- Fuels Production & Distribution
- Infrastructure Development
- Employment Generation & Skill Training
- Engineering Procurement & Construction (EPC)
- Environmental Impact Management
- Industrial Development in Western India
18. Adani Total Gas Ltd.
- Headquarter: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- Contact: 079 6922 1100
- Website: www.adanigas.com
- Founded: 2005
Adani Total Gas is a joint venture between Adani Group and TotalEnergies of France, focusing on city gas distribution (CGD) in India. It provides piped natural gas (PNG) for homes, businesses, and enterprises, as well as compressed natural gas (CNG) for automobiles.
With operations across several Indian cities, it is expanding its CGD network rapidly. The company also invests in electric vehicle charging and biogas projects.
Adani Total Gas is playing a key role in India’s clean energy transition by making gas accessible and affordable. Its strategic collaborations and technology adoption make it a rising force in the energy sector.
Average Salary: ₹5–₹8 LPA
Services Offered:
- City Gas Distribution (CNG & PNG)
- Gas Infrastructure Development
- Biogas & Green Fuel Projects
- EV Charging Infrastructure
- Gas Metering & Monitoring
- Industrial Gas Solutions
- Digital Energy Services
- Urban Mobility Support
19. Mumbai Aviation Fuel Farm Facility Pvt. Ltd. (MAFFFL)
- Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Contact: +91-22-35014200
- Website: www.mafffl.in
- Founded: 2008
MAFFFL is a specialised joint venture handling the aviation fuel infrastructure at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Incorporated in 2008, it manages the storage, quality control, and delivery of aviation turbine fuel (ATF) to aircraft.
It is a collaborative venture involving oil marketing companies and the airport operator. MAFFFL enhances operational efficiency by centralizing fuel infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted and safe refueling services.
It adheres to global safety and environmental standards and plays a critical role in India’s civil aviation ecosystem. Its model is being replicated at other major airports to streamline aviation fuel logistics nationwide.
Average Salary: ₹4.5–₹6.5 LPA
Services Offered:
- Aviation Turbine Fuel Storage & Supply
- Hydrant Refueling Infrastructure
- Fuel Quality Control & Monitoring
- Pipeline & Tank Farm Management
- Fueling Safety & Emergency Response
- Operational Coordination with Airlines
- Aircraft Refueling Logistics
- Infrastructure Upgradation & Automation
20. Shell India Markets Pvt. Ltd.
- Headquarter: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Contact: +91 44 46945101
- Website: www.shell.in
- Founded: 1996
One of the biggest energy corporations in the world, Shell plc, is the parent company of Shell India. Operating in India since 1996, it focuses on lubricants, fuel retail, LNG, and renewables. Shell runs advanced research centers and fuel stations across several states.
It is known for premium fuels and engine oils and serves both B2B and B2C markets. Shell India is expanding into electric mobility, green hydrogen, and biofuels to support India’s net-zero goals.
With global expertise and local commitment, Shell is helping accelerate the energy transition and promoting sustainable development through innovation and technology in India’s energy sector.
Average Salary: ₹6–₹10 LPA
Services Offered:
- Fuel Retailing & Mobility Solutions
- Premium Engine Oils & Lubricants
- LNG Marketing & Trading
- Solar & Renewable Energy Solutions
- EV Charging Infrastructure
- Research & Development
- Digital Energy Platforms
- Sustainable Fuel Initiatives (Hydrogen, Biofuels)
Ending Thoughts
The oil sector remains a cornerstone of India’s energy landscape, supporting industrial development, transportation, and national infrastructure. With increasing energy demand, the sector continues to evolve through technological upgrades, policy reforms, and diversification into cleaner alternatives. Public and private enterprises are enhancing refining capacities, expanding distribution networks, and investing in sustainable energy solutions such as natural gas, biofuels, and hydrogen.
While import dependency poses challenges, strategic initiatives like domestic exploration, energy storage, and international collaborations aim to strengthen energy security. As India transitions towards a low-carbon future, oil companies in India are expected to play a pivotal role by balancing traditional energy needs with innovations in green fuel technologies, ensuring both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
FAQs
1. What Services do Oil Companies in India Typically Offer?
They offer exploration, refining, storage, fuel distribution, LPG/CNG marketing, petrochemical production, and energy infrastructure services.
2. Which Company is India’s Largest Oil Refiner?
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is the largest oil refinery in India by capacity and market presence.
3. Do Indian Oil Companies Export Fuel?
Yes, several companies, including Reliance and ONGC, export refined petroleum products and crude oil to international markets.
