Starting a petrol pump dealership in India can be a lucrative business venture, considering the growing number of vehicles and the consistent demand for fuel. However, it involves various processes, legalities, and requirements. If you're planning to start a petrol pump in India, here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Eligibility Criteria:

   • Age: Generally, between 21 and 55 years.
   • Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen.
   • Educational Qualifications: Typically, a minimum of 10+2 for rural areas and a graduate degree for urban areas.

2. Select the Oil Company: India has multiple oil corporations like Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL). Each company releases advertisements in newspapers inviting applications for new petrol pumps.

3. Investment Requirement:

   • Depending on the location (rural or urban) and the company, the required investment can range anywhere from INR 15 lakhs to 2 crores or even more.
   • The applicant should also have suitable land in the desired location or should be able to acquire it.

4. Application Process:

   • Fill in the required application form when the oil company releases its advertisement.
   • Pay the non-refundable application fee. The fee varies based on your category (SC/ST/OBC/General) and the location.
   • Submit the application form with necessary documents.

5. Selection Process:

   • The oil companies generally conduct a draw or a lottery system to select dealers from the list of applicants.
   • In some cases, interviews might also be conducted.

6. Land Requirement:

   • For rural areas: A minimum of about 800-1200 sq.m.
   • For urban areas: Approximately 1200-2500 sq.m.
   • The land can either be owned or leased. If it's not owned, you should have a lease for at least 15 years at the time of application.

7. Licenses and Approvals:

   • Environmental clearance from the State Pollution Control Board.
   • Explosive license from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO).
   • NOC (No Objection Certificate) from Municipal or local bodies.
   • Retail selling license from the District Magistrate.
   • Other local permits as applicable.

8. Infrastructure Setup:

   • Construct the petrol pump as per the standards and specifications provided by the respective oil company.
   • Install tanks, dispensers, safety equipment, etc. Ensure all facilities are in place, from toilets to air/water filling stations.

9. Training: Most oil companies provide training for the dealership owner and the staff on safety procedures, operations, customer service, etc.

10. Operational Process:

• Ensure safety protocols are in place.
• Manage the supply of fuel, which will be provided by the oil company.
• Regularly audit and monitor the quantity and quality of fuel.
• Provide additional services, if possible, such as a convenience store, car wash, or food outlet, to attract more customers.

11. Compliance and Renewal: Stay compliant with the set standards, renew licenses when required, and participate in audits by the oil company.

Starting a petrol pump is capital-intensive and involves multiple approvals and licenses. It's essential to be patient and diligent in following the process. Once set up, with good service and location, it can provide a steady income source.