In a significant development, Jindal Drilling & Industries Ltd. has received a Notification of Award from Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) for the continued deployment of its rig Jindal Explorer on a fresh three-year contract. The rig will operate at an Effective Day Rate (EDR) of USD 35,138.71, the company announced in a regulatory filing.
The current contract of rig Jindal Explorer with ONGC is expected to conclude in the first quarter of FY26, while the new contract is scheduled to begin in Q3 FY26, ensuring a smooth transition and continued operations.
This award reinforces Jindal Drilling’s longstanding relationship with ONGC and its strategic position in India’s offshore drilling segment. The company is known for operating high-specification jack-up rigs for deep-sea exploration and production activities.
About ONGC
ONGC, India’s largest government-owned oil and gas explorer, plays a crucial role in the country’s energy security, accounting for approximately 70% of India’s crude oil and 84% of natural gas production. Headquartered in New Delhi, ONGC is a Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
The new contract also highlights the Indian government’s continued emphasis on enhancing domestic oil and gas production and the key role private drilling contractors play in executing complex offshore operations.
