New Delhi: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has appointed Dr. Archna Thakur as a Non-Official Independent Director on its Board.
The appointment follows a letter dated August 12, 2026, issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. ONGC’s Board of Directors approved her appointment as an Additional Director (Independent Director) with effect from August 13, 2026.
ONGC Independent Director Appointment Details
Dr. Archna Thakur will serve as an Independent Director for a period of three years, subject to further orders.
Key details of the appointment include:
- Name: Dr. Archna Thakur
- DIN: 11719170
- Position: Non-Official Independent Director
- Effective Date: August 13, 2026
- Tenure: Three years from August 12, 2026, or until further orders, whichever is earlier
As an Additional Director, her appointment will continue until the ensuing Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the company, in accordance with applicable provisions.
The appointment strengthens ONGC’s Board with independent expertise and supports the company’s corporate governance framework under the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.
Dr. Archna Thakur: Education and Experience
Dr. Archna Thakur holds a Doctorate in International Politics from Himachal Pradesh University. She is also a Gold Medalist in Master’s in Political Science.
She has more than 20 years of professional experience across academics, management, administration and social services.
Her previous professional roles include:
- Principal of a Vocational Training Institute under the Department of Technical Education (Polytechnic).
- Head of the Social Science Department at a reputed international school.
- Marketing Director with electronic media houses in Himachal Pradesh.
- Consultant with the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Himachal Pradesh.
Her diverse experience covers education, administration, management and community-focused initiatives.
Dr. Archna Thakur’s Social Sector Experience
Alongside her professional career, Dr. Thakur has been associated with several non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Her social-sector involvement has focused on areas such as:
- Women’s empowerment
- Social awareness
- Community welfare
- Social development
Her experience in these areas is expected to bring an additional perspective to the company’s Board-level discussions and governance processes.
ONGC Confirms Director Eligibility
ONGC has confirmed that Dr. Archna Thakur is not related to any existing Director of the company.
The company has also stated that she is not debarred from holding the office of Director by any SEBI order or any other statutory or regulatory authority.
The appointment has been made pursuant to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas’ communication and has been disclosed by ONGC in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
About ONGC
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) is India’s largest exploration and production company and a major public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The company is engaged in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas and plays a significant role in India’s energy sector.
