New Delhi: State-run energy giants Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and GAIL (India) Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore technical collaboration and partnership opportunities in upcoming exploration bid rounds. The MoU was signed on the sidelines of India Energy Week 2026, reinforcing cooperation between the two public sector undertakings in India’s upstream energy sector.
The agreement was formalised on January 27, 2026, at ONGC’s Advanced Training Institute (ATI) in Goa.
Focus on Technical Collaboration and Capability Building
According to an official statement, the MoU aims to identify opportunities for:
- Technical collaboration in exploration activities
- Capability building and knowledge sharing
- Strategic partnerships for future exploration bidding
The initiative reflects a shared intent to leverage the institutional strengths and domain expertise of both companies to support India’s long-term energy security goals.
Senior Leadership Present at MoU Signing
The MoU was signed in the presence of senior leadership from both organisations, including:
- Mr. Arunangshu Sarkar, Director (Strategy & Corporate Affairs), ONGC
- Mr. O.P. Sinha, Director (Exploration), ONGC
- Mr. R.K. Singhal, Director (Business Development), GAIL
Officials highlighted that collaboration among public sector enterprises is crucial for strengthening domestic hydrocarbon exploration and promoting responsible energy development.
India Energy Week 2026: A Key Industry Platform
India Energy Week 2026 serves as a major platform bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and global energy companies to discuss energy security, energy transition, and sustainable development. The ONGC–GAIL MoU aligns with the broader national agenda of enhancing self-reliance in the hydrocarbon sector.
About ONGC
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is India’s largest crude oil and natural gas producer and a Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The company plays a pivotal role in India’s upstream exploration and production activities, contributing significantly to the nation’s energy self-sufficiency.
About GAIL (India) Limited
GAIL (India) Limited, a Navratna PSU, is India’s leading natural gas company with operations spanning gas transmission, marketing, LNG, and petrochemicals. GAIL is actively expanding its presence across the energy value chain and supporting India’s energy security through strategic partnerships and infrastructure development.
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