Vipin Gupta, Engineer

Meet Vipin Gupta, an engineer at Cairn. From morning briefings and field inspections to supervising crude oil operations, Vipin ensures that every task is completed safely and efficiently while keeping the team coordinated and on track.

Want to see what a day in his life looks like? Click here to find out

Greeshma Shibu, Production Engineer

Meet Greeshma, a Production Engineer at Cairn, turning challenges into opportunities and making an impact in the energy industry.

Click to learn more about her journey.

Bishal Dutta, Petroleum Engineer

Meet Bishal, a Petroleum Engineer at Cairn who transforms curiosity into action. From exploring what lies beneath the surface to leading complex projects, he turns every challenge into an opportunity to grow.

Click to learn more about his journey.

Nikita Bendre, Lead Control Room

Meet Nikita Bendre, Lead Control Room at Bhogat, Gujarat, breaking barriers and inspiring women in the Oil and Gas industry. Her journey shows that determination knows no gender.

Click to learn more about her story.

Santosh Kumer, Graduate Engineer Trainee (Operations)

Meet Santosh Kumar, Graduate Engineer Trainee (Operations) at Cairn, whose curiosity about machines led him from mechanical engineering to powering offshore operations.

Click to explore his journey of learning, teamwork, and leaving his mark step by step.

Inside an Engineer’s Mind

Our engineers share answers to the questions they are most frequently asked, offering insights, experiences, and inspiration. Watch the video to see their journey and discover what it takes to be part of shaping a better future for the country and its people.

https://youtube.com/shorts/SgaVz6rF-7s?si=tdpL_agDT0YsRdox

Contributed by Spurthi

At the core of this journey is Graham Richardson, our Chief Development Officer who brings over 35 years of global experience. As Chief of Development and Subsurface, Graham envisions to unlock greater value from existing assets while reinforcing Cairn’s commitment to sustainable energy leadership.

We caught up with Graham for a candid Q&A to learn more about his journey and his vision for the road ahead.

Having been in the energy sector for over 35 years what excites you about your role at Cairn?

What excites me here at Cairn is the real variety of technical challenges. It’s a very diverse asset base. We’ve got an onshore field that’s relatively mature, where we’re working on enhanced oil recovery and tight oil development. These require rigorous technical planning but we also need to move fast. That makes it challenging but also exciting. We’re opening up new areas like the Northeast where we have exploration activity and deepwater developments in the East Coast that we hope will follow. What attracted me to this role was the diversity and the technical challenges across these assets. I believe there’s significant potential to grow but we must get the technical and commercial elements right.

How would you describe your job in one sentence?

I take discovered hydrocarbon molecules that are in the ground and not currently being produced and we design ways to bring those accumulations into production economically. My focus is on adding to the existing production Cairn is delivering today.

Across your career, which all geographies have you worked in?

Globally, I have worked in about six countries, India being the seventh country. Initially, I started in the UK North Sea and worked offshore in Thailand. Then I moved to a corporate head office in Geneva, Switzerland, followed by a stint in Russia. After that, I returned to the UK, then I worked in Abu Dhabi and most recently in Calgary, Canada, before joining Cairn. I have worked onshore and offshore, in conventional and unconventional fields. I hope this diversity of experience helps me make a difference here.

What’s the most complex development project you’ve worked on and how do those lessons apply here?

I have worked on mature field redevelopments and enhanced oil recovery projects. In aging fields, you have to be very precise because you’re spending money to access smaller or technically difficult pockets. These projects are challenging but add real value by extending field life. In Canada, I gained deep experience in tight oil and unconventional development over ten years. I’m now trying to apply those global best practices and learnings here. For instance, I have worked on similar redevelopment projects in the UK.

As someone who is leading development at Cairn, what’s one key lesson you want to pass on to your team or young leaders?

First, I strongly believe in teamwork and leveraging the diverse skills of the group. Development is a multidisciplinary effort involving geology, geophysics, reservoirs and projects, all must come together. Second, always keep an open mind. What worked in the past may not be the best solution going forward. And finally, a leader must set a clear course. Teams look to leaders for direction, so while it’s important to consider risks, it’s equally important to be decisive.

Cairn is known for its young, diverse talent, even in field roles, which is rare in the Indian oil and gas sector. What’s your view on this?

Yes, I have noticed this and it’s very encouraging. But developing young talent needs to be thoughtful and planned, it doesn’t just happen. We’re actively looking at how to deploy, mentor and train our young workforce in the best way. I have seen a lot of great potential in the organization. It just needs the right nurturing. Individual development is something I am passionate about and in the coming months, you’ll see more efforts from us in that direction.

What innovations or technologies do you believe will shape the future of the oil and gas industry?

There are two key aspects to this. While digital technology and AI are widely discussed and rightly so they only bring real value when applied to the right problems. From my petroleum engineering perspective, the true game changers for the next decade will be advanced recovery technologies enhanced oil recovery and innovations in drilling and completions all delivered in a cost-effective way. The oil that’s left in the world is increasingly difficult to extract, so efficiency and cost control are critical. The right technology at the right cost, that’s the key. As for AI and machine learning, I have already seen them being particularly effective in data mining and equipment performance monitoring especially in predicting equipment failures. Their ability to process vast amounts of data in real time is incredibly powerful. These are the most useful ways AI is helping today but we should keep looking for new ways it can support areas like subsurface work where we handle a huge amount of complicated data.

What’s one word your colleagues would use to describe you?

Accountable and positive.

How has your experience in India been so far from living and traveling to adapting to the culture, food and changes over the years?

I have visited India twice before on vacation, once about 20 years ago and again around 10 years ago but this is my first time spending an extended period here. The change since my earlier visits has been remarkable. I remember visiting Delhi nearly 18 years ago and the development especially in places like Gurgaon, has been tremendous. On those earlier trips, I explored Delhi, Agra, Goa and even took a short visit to Kerala while I was based in Abu Dhabi. Since moving here in February, I have tried to get out of the city once a month and have visited Jaipur, Jodhpur, Chandigarh, Rishikesh and Mathura so far. Each place has had something unique to offer. Rishikesh was fascinating with its spiritual atmosphere. I like to travel without expectations and just absorb places as they are. The most intense moment was definitely in Mathura, where I visited a Hindu temple in the old town. The narrow passage to reach the priest was so crowded that I was almost lifted off my feet by the crowd. As for Indian food, I’ve adjusted quite well. I actually lived in Thailand for three years where the food can be even spicier, so handling Indian spices hasn’t been a problem at all.

How do you unwind after a busy week?

My recent hobby is learning Hindi. I have learned a few words like Namaste and Kaise ho. I really want to get a teacher, but maybe once my family is here, we can learn together. Apart from that, I enjoy walking, mostly within my residential society here. I try to go for a walk first thing in the morning and again at night. It helps me stay energized. I also love visiting new places. When I have longer breaks, I enjoy heading to the mountains. Nature, mountains, lakes and rivers, they give me peace. When my family arrives, I hope we can visit the Himalayas. I have been to Nepal twice, once ten years ago and once when I was 25. I spent a whole month there.

Contributed by Wellverse Team

From breakthrough technologies to inspiring journeys of our teams, Barrel Bulletin is your gateway to the ideas and efforts shaping a more energy-secure tomorrow. If you haven’t joined us yet, there’s no better time- click here and subscribe to Barrel Bulletin today.

Contributed by Spurthi E

Only 10% of Asaam-Arakan Basin’s sprawling geological marvel has been explored, yet it’s estimated to hold nearly 40 billion barrels of oil equivalent. That’s not just a reserve, it’s a sleeping giant. Now, with the rise of advanced exploration technology, progressive policies like Hydrocarbon Vision 2030, and a renewed push for energy self-reliance, the region is no longer a quiet bystander. It’s becoming the headline act.

Ready to discover how this silent frontier could fuel India’s future? Dive into the full story because what lies beneath might just power what lies ahead.

Click to view the full article

Contributed by Wellverse Team

Mandeep Narang’s journey from being the first Graduate Engineer Trainee at Cairn to leading our operations as Chief Operating Officer is a testament to the power of discipline, adaptability, and a passion for innovation. A self-confessed ‘Meaningful Introvert’ who leads one of the largest teams at Cairn, Mandeep has grown through hands-on experiences across geographies, offshore and onshore operations, global assignments, and digital frontiers. In this exclusive conversation, Mandeep shares some of the defining reflections from his career, his vision for the future, and the personal values that guide him.

Q. You’ve had a long and inspiring journey with Cairn, tell us how it all began and what shaped your growth into a leadership role.
A: “I was the first GET that Cairn PLC hired. My journey started at Suvali, and then, after my 2 years at Cairn, I moved to Bombay High. But it was offshore where things really changed for me. Just a year into the job, I was managing full-fledged operations, which gave me a crash course in real-world application of everything I’d learnt. Planning, precision, and problem-solving became a way of life. I used to dream about becoming an Offshore Installation Manager, and eventually I became a Global Installation Manager for Shell. Working internationally taught me to appreciate cultural nuances, operational discipline, and the value of collaboration. Over time, I evolved from being a technical engineer to a people-centric leader who could speak multiple operational ‘languages’, across locations, dialects, and roles.”

Q. You’ve spoken about the importance of journaling. What role does it play in your life, and what book are you currently reading?
A: “Journaling is something I’ve turned to for clarity and reflection. It helps me sort my thoughts, especially during high-pressure phases. Whether I’m managing multiple projects or navigating stakeholder expectations, writing things down allows me to see patterns and solutions more clearly. It’s like a quiet coach. Right now, I’m reading How to Kill Your Family. I’ve also developed a deep interest in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese literature, there’s something unique about how they present human emotions and discipline. It adds a different layer of insight to how I think and lead.”

Q. If you weren’t in operations role, what would you be doing instead?
A: “I think I’d be a pilot. There’s something about flying, precision, discipline, and a sense of freedom, that has always appealed to me. Even as a student, I was drawn to the structure of aviation. It aligns well with how I operate in high-stakes environments, calm, calculated, and focused.”

Q. If you could instantly master any skill or talent, what would it be?
A: “It would be coding. In today’s world, the ability to write code is like having a superpower, you can build, automate, and solve complex problems from scratch. My early interest in digital tools came from freelancing in college. That exposure made me appreciate how technology can transform even the most traditional operations. Being hands-on with tech helps you lead digital transitions better.”

Q. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself during your career journey?
A: “Honestly, that I’m far more adaptable than I gave myself credit for. I started as a shy engineer and found myself managing full offshore operations within a year. Then came global roles, different cultures, different challenges. Somewhere along the way, I learned to listen deeply, connect with people beyond roles, and lead with empathy, even when the dialect or work style was completely new. That human side of leadership has surprised and shaped me the most.”

Q. How do you unwind post work, considering the demands of your role?
A: “Saturdays and Sundays are strictly for family. It’s a boundary I’ve drawn intentionally. We have a Sunday ritual of watching movies together, and we take at least one trip a year; preferably somewhere close to nature. I’m not much of a city traveller. Time with family grounds me. It reminds me of why I work as hard as I do.”

Q. How do you evaluate and prioritise opportunities for growth or expansion?
A: “It’s always a mix of strategic fit and execution capability. First, we ask, does this opportunity align with where we want to be? Then, we assess how quickly and effectively we can act on it. In a fast-evolving sector like ours, speed and adaptability are just as important as strategy. An idea is only valuable if it can be scaled with precision and pace.”

Q. Can you walk us through one of the biggest operational challenges you’ve faced?
A. “One of the biggest challenges has been leading people through transformation. Technology is the easy part, what’s harder is changing mindsets. When we introduced digital monitoring and predictive analytics across fields, the toughest task wasn’t installation, it was getting teams to trust it, use it, and make it part of their daily rhythm. Success came not just from tools but from conversations, trainings, and showing how it made their lives easier. Change, ultimately, is about people.”

Q. How do you see technology, like AI and automation, reshaping the future of operations at Cairn?
A: “We are witnessing a complete paradigm shift. With AI, automation, and IoT, our operations are becoming more intelligent and agile. At RJ North, for example, we’ve already moved towards full digitalisation of well life and maintenance. This isn’t just about systems, it’s about enabling smarter decisions, predicting issues before they arise, and ensuring we work safer and faster. Technology is helping us move from reactive to predictive operations, and that’s the future.”

Q. Talking about technology, you’re known for your love of gadgets and technology. What’s your favourite right now, and why?
A: “Definitely my smartwatch. It tracks my runs and helps me stay connected with work, all in one device. For me, the best technology is the kind that enhances both wellness and efficiency. I like tools that serve a purpose beyond novelty, something that makes life simpler and more intentional.”

Contributed by Wellverse Team

In his interaction with Hart Energy, Hitesh Vaid, our CFO, unveiled Cairn’s roadmap to double our hydrocarbon production. Our goals will be powered by advancements in enhanced oil recovery techniques, tight oil monetisation, and deepwater exploration. A significant milestone underscored during this interaction was Cairn’s upcoming first shale well, poised to commence operations by mid-2025.

To realise this vision, we are collaborating with world-class service providers across the U.S. and Europe, integrating cutting-edge technologies to revolutionise India’s upstream oil and gas sector. These initiatives reaffirm our unwavering dedication to energising India’s growth story and contributing substantially to its energy security.

Watch the full interaction here.

Contributed by Wellverse Team

In a podcast interaction with the Energy Connects, Hitesh Vaid, CFO – Cairn, articulated our vision to produce 50% of India’s domestic crude. This ambitious goal is rooted in our integrated approach, which combines cutting-edge technology, unwavering sustainability efforts, and a growing focus on renewable energy solutions.

Hitesh also underscored Cairn’s strategic interest into shale and ultra-deepwater exploration, underscoring the immense potential these ventures hold.

Watch Hitesh’s full interaction here.

In a similar interaction with Energy Connects, Mandeep Narang, COO – Cairn, also presented Cairn’s visionary roadmap to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. He outlined how sustainability is no longer a parallel goal but an integral part of Cairn’s operations, woven into its strategies and everyday practices.

Mandeep highlighted Cairn’s trailblazing distinction as the first private company to join the United Nations Environment Program’s Methane Reporting and Reduction Initiative – OGMP 2.0. Employing advanced monitoring technologies and robust emission control measures, Cairn is steadfast in its mission to reduce its environmental impact and stride towards our vision of Transforming for Good.

Hear Mandeep’s full podcast interaction.

Contributed by Wellverse Team

True leadership is defined by those who push boundaries and drive innovation, and Parimal Patel, Manager – Electrical Operations at RJ North stands as a shining example of this ethos. A cornerstone of our operations, Parimal has not only led critical plant electric systems but also spearheaded the successful soft-charging of a 40 MV Transformer, a pioneering, tech-first initiative that is cutting operational costs and reducing dependency on grid power.

As one of our #PillarsOfCairn, Parimal has been instrumental in advancing our vision of #EnergyAatmanirbharta. His efforts have been transformative, leading the charge in eliminating diesel-powered sources and transitioning to sustainable, permanent power solutions, including grids and solar plants. His commitment to efficiency and sustainability continues to shape Cairn’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency, reinforcing our mission of powering India with innovation, resilience, and responsibility.

Contributed by Wellverse Team

In this insightful conversation, Sam Algar, Cairn’s Chief of Exploration, shares the experiences that shaped his career, the lessons he learned from setbacks, and the fascinating tales from his global assignments. Whether it’s the awe of exploring new geographies or finding balance amidst demanding work, his journey offers inspiration to those aspiring to make a mark in their own fields.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the oil and gas industry? Can you share a memorable anecdote from your early career days?

I’ve been captivated by the Earth’s wonders since I was twelve. My fascination with geology began during my school years, as I marveled at the diversity of minerals, fossils, and rock formations on field trips across the UK. It was an eye-opening experience to realise how much history and mystery the ground beneath our feet holds.

Alongside this, I’ve always loved travelling—exploring different geographies and immersing myself in new cultures. When I discovered that a career in geology could open doors to the oil and gas industry, offering the chance to travel the world, it felt like a perfect fit.

And it truly has been! My journey started with a PhD in Geology, conducting research in the jungles and along the beaches of Trinidad while based at Dartmouth College in the U.S. It was both challenging and exhilarating—a perfect foundation for what was to come.

My career took off in London, where I quickly found myself sent offshore to Cambodia, working on a Canadian icebreaker drillship for eight weeks. I still vividly recall the chef shining lights into the sea at night to catch sea snakes—an unforgettable sight that left me wondering about dinner! Other assignments brought equally unique experiences, like heading offshore in Romania’s Black Sea, where the helicopter blades had to be de-iced before takeoff. These moments have been as thrilling as they’ve been humbling, underscoring the adventure and unpredictability of this field.

How do you balance your demanding job with personal time? Any tips for maintaining a work-life balance?

Balancing work and personal life in such a dynamic industry can be challenging, but I’ve learned the importance of boundaries. I make a conscious effort not to take work home and to compartmentalise as much as possible. This mental separation allows me to “switch off” and truly enjoy my time at home. Of course, there are exceptions—especially when we’re drilling wells—but maintaining that boundary as much as possible has been invaluable.

Do you have any hobbies or interests that might surprise your colleagues? What’s one thing your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?

I’ve always enjoyed embracing the unexpected. For instance, my real name is Stephen, not Sam—something that surprises many people!

Once, during my time in Trinidad, I played “mas” in the carnival, spending two days dancing behind a carnival float in full costume. It was an unforgettable celebration of life, music, and colour (though, unfortunately, I don’t have photos to prove it).

My love for exploration extends beyond work—I’ve experienced three earthquakes over magnitude 6, twice in Jakarta and once in Papua New Guinea’s mountains, while acquiring seismic data. Each moment was a powerful reminder of nature’s strength and unpredictability.

Oh, and yes, I used to have hair at one time!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?

“Don’t take things too personally.” This simple yet profound advice has stayed with me, shared by an exploration director early in my career.

When I was starting out in London, my team and I worked tirelessly on an entry case for Brazil. We were excited about the prospect of success and the opportunities it could bring, but the deal didn’t materialise. We were crushed, but our director encouraged us to stay positive, saying, “There will always be other opportunities.”

And he was right. Within six months, we had a breakthrough in Indonesia, which turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. That setback taught me resilience and the importance of focusing on the long game.

If you weren’t in the oil and gas industry, what alternative career path might you have chosen?

I’ve always admired entrepreneurial ventures. Both my brothers run their own businesses—one successfully and the other less so—but the spirit of innovation and independence they embody is inspiring. If I weren’t in this field, I would have pursued the path of an entrepreneur, creating something from the ground up.

Moving to India must have been a unique experience. Can you share your thoughts on transitioning to life in India and what you’ve found most intriguing about living here?

Having lived in diverse places like Indonesia, Malaysia, Canada, the U.S., Trinidad, and Australia, I thought moving to India might feel somewhat familiar—perhaps akin to my time in Indonesia, which was one of the best experiences of my life.

In many ways, Gurgaon reminds me of Jakarta. There’s the vibrant energy of its people, the bustling streets, the stark contrasts between wealth and simplicity, and, of course, the amazing food. The warmth of the community here is unmistakable.

I’m excited about the changing seasons, and I look forward to venturing out to discover the rich history, culture, and landscapes of this incredible country.

Sam Algar’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and the constant quest for discovery. From the jungles of Trinidad to the icy waters of Cambodia, his journey is a testament to the extraordinary rewards that come with following one’s dreams, no matter where they lead.

Contributed by Wellverse Team

Women Redefining the Oil & Gas Industry

Women are redefining the oil and gas industry, bringing innovation, leadership, and resilience to a field once dominated by men. At Cairn, women are exploring hydrocarbon reserves, drilling wells, leading projects, and pushing towards Energy Aatmanirbharta. To achieve 30% gender diversity by 2030, Cairn is nurturing diverse talent through progressive health and safety measures, work-life balance programs, flexible work policies for returning mothers, and daycare allowances. Cairn’s recent awards reflect its commitment to building an inclusive, empowering workplace where women engineers and professionals thrive and inspire the next generation to explore India with Cairn.

Click here to see more.

Contributed by Wellverse Team