Question : DIVERSIFICATION PLANS OF ONGC

(a): Whether the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) plans to diversify its operations in the field of nuclear energy generation in addition to gas based power generation;

(b): if so, the details thereof,

(c): whether ONGC has firmed up any collaboration in this respect to make use of the expertise available through such tie ups;

(d): if so, whether the Government has allowed entry of public sector players in the nuclear generation space which had been hitherto banned for outsiders; and

(e): if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS (SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

(a): No, Madam. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) does not have plans for diversifying its operations in the field of nuclear energy generation.

(b) & (c): Does not arise, in view of reply against (a) above.

(d) & (e): Public Sector Companies can partner with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), a Government Company of the Department of Atomic Energy permitted to set up and operate nucldar power plants under the provisions of the Atomic Energy Act 1964. Discussions in this regard, at the company level have been initiated between NPCIL and National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).