OREANDA-NEWS. May 3, 2012. In pursuance to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Frontier Basin of ONGC extends its support to the district hospitals of Kota, Bhilwara and Baran by providing three state-of-the-art ambulances. In a brief ceremony held at Jaipur on 2nd May, 2012, Shri Sudhir Vasudeva, CMD, ONGC handed over the keys to concerned district authorities and ambulances were flagged off by Shri Ashok Gehlot, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan. This will bolster the healthcare infrastructure of the district administrations and would provide relief to large number of people of Rajasthan.

The history of hydrocarbon exploration in ONGC dates back to 1960 in tough desert terrains of Barmer Basin. Recently, the premier explorer has taken up a massive exploration campaign in Chambal Valley of Rajasthan. Frontier Basin of ONGC is operating in three NELP Blocks viz VN-ONN-2003/1, VN-ONN-2004/1 and VN-ONN-2004/2 awarded by the Government of India and the blocks encompass districts of Kota, Bhilwara and Baran. Apart from these blocks, ONGC is the licensee and holds 30% participating interest in the RJ-ON 90/1 block of Barmer Basin, which is the largest onshore discovery in India recently.

Exploration activities currently underway in Chambal Valley area comprise a massive seismic survey campaign followed by drilling of exploratory wells. Two wells are under drilling presently; one each at Chechat and Palaita. One well at Suket area is to be drilled shortly and preparation for the same is in progress. Based on the outcome of these wells, few more prospects have been identified for drilling for hydrocarbon probing and its commerciality.

ONGC has a distinguished track record of excellence in good Corporate Governance and in line with the same, ONGC is committed to its social responsibilities in the area of its operations. Frontier Basin has undertaken various CSR activities like organizing medical camps for eye check up and cataract operations, distributing sewing machines to widows and families falling under BPL, solar lanterns and computers etc to various schools. Cash donations were also given to different schools in the area for improving their infrastructure.

Speaking on the occasion, CMD, ONGC Shri Vasudeva said, "From responsive activities to sustainable initiatives, ONGC has always endeavoured to make a significant difference in the society and improve the overall quality of life. This is one of the key drivers of our CSR programs.” Shri. Vasudeva thanked Govt of Rajasthan particularly the Hon’ble Chief Minister for providing continuous support and encouragement to ONGC’s efforts towards attaining energy security for the nation.