A Comparative Study on the Financial Performance of Selected Indian Petroleum Companies

The petroleum industry is a vital contributor to India’s economic growth and energy security. This study presents a comparative analysis of the financial performance of selected Indian petroleum companies, namely Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Nayara Energy Limited and Reliance BP Mobility Limited. The objective is to evaluate their financial efficiency, profitability, liquidity, and solvency over a five-year period. The study is based on secondary data obtained from published annual reports and financial statements. Analytical tools such as ratio analysis, and comparative financial statements are employed to assess key indicators including Net Profit Margin, Current Ratio, and Debt–Equity Ratio. The findings reveal notable differences in profitability, capital structure, and operational efficiency among the selected companies, influenced by ownership patterns, scale of operations, and strategic management practices. The study concludes that effective financial management and strategic planning are essential for sustaining competitiveness in India’s dynamic petroleum sector.