Indian Energy — Producers of “Free” (Non-Associated) Natural Gas Which of the following identify India’s major producers of free (non-associated) natural gas at a high-level general-studies view?

Introduction / Context:
Natural gas in India is produced from offshore basins (notably the western offshore near Mumbai) and onshore/offshore plays in the east and north-east. “Free” or non-associated gas refers to gas produced not merely as a by-product of oil but as primary gas accumulations. General-studies questions usually highlight both western offshore and eastern/north-eastern contributors.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Western offshore: South Bassein (Mumbai High region) and Tapti fields.
• Eastern and north-eastern fields: Krishna–Godavari (KG) Basin and Tripura.
• Question seeks an inclusive recognition, not an exhaustive list.

Concept / Approach:
India’s gas basket historically includes significant volumes from South Bassein/Tapti and from the KG Basin and Tripura. Since both regions are major contributors in standard summaries, the combined option is the most accurate at a broad level.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Energy overviews routinely pair western offshore with KG/Tripura in lists of key gas zones.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Only (a) or only (b) under-represents the national production picture.
• “None of the above” contradicts widely known data.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing associated (with oil) and non-associated gas. The question uses “free” in the sense of primary gas accumulations.

Final Answer:
both (a) and (b)