ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly was informed on Monday that the government had awarded 46 oil and gas exploration licences to step up drilling activities in potential areas of the country during last four years.

During the question-hour session, Minister In-charge of Petroleum and Natural Resources said the government was working on various projects to enhance indigenous oil and gas reserves.

He said 386 exploration and development wells had been drilled during the tenure of current government.

He said 41 new blocks would be awarded after receiving No Objection Certificate from M/s defence from terrain point of view.

He said apart from conventional resources, the government was also making all out efforts to explore and produce unconventional reserves like tight gas and shale gas.