According to a study conducted by the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), evidence from microscopic palynomorphs, organic remains, and geochemical assessments has suggested a strong potential for hydrocarbon generation in the eastern region of the South Karanpura coalfield, located in Jharkhand's Ramgarh district.

The study highlighted that the eastern Sirka coalfield demonstrated a higher potential for hydrocarbon generation compared to the Giddi coalfield in the northern part of the region. The South Karanpura coalfield, which encompasses 28 major coal blocks, is well-recognized for its vast coal deposits. However, due to increasing energy demands and a growing interest in unconventional resources like coal bed methane and shale gas, the attention has now shifted towards the hydrocarbon potential of the region.

The scientists from BSIP explained that the potential for hydrocarbon generation within a source rock is primarily determined by the concentration of organic matter, which is influenced by specific environmental factors. The study involved an examination of microscopic remains, such as pollen, spores, and other organic matter, alongside Rock-Eval pyrolysis to evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of sediments from the Sirka and Giddi C areas of the Damodar Basin.

Samples were collected from coal, carbonaceous shale, and sandstone layers from quarry faces at Sirka Colliery and Giddi C Colliery in Hazaribagh district. Analyzing parameters such as palynofacies, free hydrocarbons, pyrolyzable carbon, and residual hydrocarbons, the researchers found favorable conditions for hydrocarbon resource potential, particularly in the Permian (Barakar) deposits located in the eastern section of the coalfield.