New Delhi – At the UrjaVarta 2025 Tech‑Strat Forum, ONGC’s newly appointed Director (Exploration), OP Sinha, highlighted the importance of collaborative offshore exploration. He emphasized that joint bidding with private players, backed by progressive policy reforms, is speeding up learning curves and effectively managing technological, geological, and financial risks.
Strategic Collaboration Is the Key
Speaking on a panel with other energy leaders, Mr. Sinha stated:
“Collaboration in offshore exploration is a strategic imperative. The learning is faster. Companies bring deep analysis and expertise that help navigate technological, geological, and financial risks.”
He reiterated that ONGC’s shift toward joint ventures marks a new era supported by policy-led risk reduction, moving from revenue assurances to production-focused frameworks.
Forum Highlights Technologies & Reforms
The panel covered vital elements for India’s offshore growth:
- Adoption of advanced seismic technologies to improve subsurface imaging.
- Need for streamlined regulatory clearances to accelerate timelines.
- Emphasis on global best practices in deepwater drilling, including subsea tie-backs and contractor capability development.
These combined strategies are essential to unlock India’s vast offshore hydrocarbon potential.
Leadership with Deep Experience
OP Sinha took up his current role effective July 14, 2025, bringing over 37 years of expertise in exploration and production. He played a leading role at the forum immediately following his appointment, enhancing ONGC’s collaboration-driven approach to offshore projects.
Driving India’s Energy Independence
Mr Sinha’s participation at UrjaVarta 2025 underscores ONGC’s commitment to deepwater exploration through partnership and innovation. By aligning with private sector strengths and leveraging policy reforms like risk de-risking and revenue-to-production models, ONGC aims to energize India’s offshore sector and bolster the nation’s energy security.
About ONGC
Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) is a Maharatna PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. As the country’s largest oil and gas exploration and production company, ONGC plays a critical role in ensuring India’s energy security. Its operations span offshore and onshore exploration, field development, and strategic partnerships across the globe.
