ONGC : One of the largest E&P companies in Asia

Vikram Saxena | Director (T & FS) | Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited

An Interview with Vikram Saxena

Director (T & FS) | Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited

With what objective was ONGC set up?

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) was established in 1956 to give India a home-grown capability in exploring and producing hydrocarbons, rather than depending on foreign firms. The aim was to establish domestic production of crude oil and natural gas, strengthen national energy security, and develop the technical and institutional foundation needed for India’s long-term economic growth. It was also tasked with creating technical expertise, building national infrastructure and supporting India’s long-term economic growth. Its objective was to create a strong, self-reliant upstream industry by conducting systematic geological surveys, exploration and drilling across the country.

What is the exact role of ONGC in the Oil & Gas sector?

ONGC explores, develops and produces crude oil and natural gas from both onshore and offshore basins. It plays a central role in meeting India’s energy demand and maintaining supply stability. The company also operates major offshore assets, supplies natural gas to industries and supports the national refining and petrochemical network. Its work forms the backbone of India’s upstream sector. it supplies a large share of India’s domestic hydrocarbon supply — about 70 % of crude oil and over 80 % of natural gas produced domestically come from ONGC.

How do you view ONGC’s progress since its inception?

Over the decades, ONGC has grown from a small exploration body into one of the largest E&P companies in Asia. It discovered most of India’s major fields, developed offshore capabilities and expanded globally through OVL. The organisation modernised its drilling, seismic and production systems and consistently contributed to domestic energy security. Its progress reflects strong technical depth and strategic focus. It now operates more than 175 drilling and workover rigs and maintains a large oil and gas infrastructure spread, showing strong growth in technical capacity.

How is the overall scenario of the Oil & Gas sector in India?

India remains heavily dependent on imports, but domestic exploration continues to expand. Demand for oil and gas is rising due to industrial growth and energy requirements. The sector is shifting toward cleaner fuels, improved technology and exploration-friendly policies. Gas is gaining importance as a transition fuel. Digital operations and sustainability targets are shaping future developments. Recent policies and exploration efforts aim to boost domestic output — including plans for ramped-up production especially from offshore and deep-water fields.

What challenges is ONGC facing today? Why is modernization important?

ONGC is navigating a tough phase today. Many of its main fields are getting older, so keeping production steady takes more effort, more technology and more money. At the same time, most new opportunities lie in challenging environments like HPHT, deepwater or high-drift wells, where the work is more complex and the margins for error are smaller. There’s also constant pressure to bring wells online faster, cut non-productive time and manage costs without compromising safety. On top of that, the energy landscape is changing, competition is growing and the shift toward cleaner energy is reshaping long-term priorities.

Modernization matters because the industry has moved far ahead of traditional ways of working. Upgraded rigs, digital tools, real-time data, automation and smarter project systems help ONGC make quicker decisions, avoid failures, and get more out of older reservoirs. Modern practices also strengthen safety, reduce environmental risk and make day-to-day operations smoother. In simple terms, modernization is what allows ONGC to stay efficient, stay competitive and continue delivering reliable energy in a world that’s changing faster than ever.

How does ONGC integrate digital technologies in field operations?

ONGC uses real-time data platforms RTDOC, IoT sensors and remote monitoring to track operations in mature fields and remote areas. Digital twins help optimize wells, predict failures and reduce downtime. Automated systems improve safety and lower human exposure in hazardous zones. Machine learning supports reservoir modeling and production planning.

What advanced technologies are used on offshore platforms?

Offshore assets rely on high-integrity safety systems, blowout preventers, advanced corrosion monitoring and structural health sensors. Modern fire and gas detection, emergency shutdown systems and remote-operated vehicles are part of routine operations. Platforms follow international standards for emissions, spills and waste management. Digital dashboards and predictive maintenance tools help maintain reliability and compliance. For offshore operations (for example in fields like Mumbai High), modern safety, drilling, maintenance and recovery technologies are crucial, especially given the challenges of deep-water and matured reservoirs.

What measures are taken to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2070?

India’s Net Zero 2070 target sets a clear direction, and ONGC is aligning its strategy to support that transition while still meeting the country’s growing energy needs. From ONGC’s perspective, the path to Net Zero is a mix of cleaner operations, lower emissions, and gradual diversification into low-carbon energy. ONGC is expanding renewable energy projects like solar and wind to offset carbon intensity. It is adopting gas-based power, electrifying platforms and improving energy efficiency across operations. Methane leak detection, flaring reduction and carbon capture assessments are ongoing. Green hydrogen and biofuel initiatives are being evaluated. Restoration of degraded land and afforestation also support long-term commitments. Natural gas has a lower carbon intensity compared to liquid fuels. Increasing gas production and gas-based development plans is part of ONGC’s gradual shift toward a cleaner energy mix.

Overall, the approach is practical: keep producing the oil and gas the country needs today, but steadily make operations cleaner, invest in future energy solutions, and build the capabilities required for a lower-carbon tomorrow.

How do you see ONGC in the year 2030?

By 2030, ONGC is expected to operate with stronger digital capabilities, higher recovery from mature fields and expanded offshore development. The company will likely diversify further into renewables and low-carbon technologies. Production systems will be more automated and data driven. Global partnerships and overseas assets may contribute a larger share. Overall, the organisation will be more resilient and energy-transition ready.

What about your CSR activities?

ONGC invests in education, healthcare, skill development and supports community development nationwide across its operational regions. Projects include scholarship schemes, medical facilities, drinking water systems and women empowerment programs. The company supports sports, cultural preservation and disaster relief. CSR efforts aim to improve quality of life for local communities. All initiatives follow a structured and transparent framework.

(Shilpa Bichitra | Special Edition | 2025)