ONGC and Engineers India to Build ₹39.42 Crore Helium Recovery Plant in Tamil Nadu

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation of India (ONGC) has partnered with Engineers India Ltd to set up a helium recovery demonstration plant at its Cauvery Asset gas collection station in Tamil Nadu.

Under the deal, Engineers India will handle designing, engineering, construction, commissioning, and performance testing of the plant. The total order value is ₹39.42 crore, and the project is expected to be completed in 18 months.

First-of-its-kind in India

This project marks India’s first indigenous helium recovery initiative, showcasing ONGC’s commitment to innovation and energy security. The plant will use a technology package developed by CSIR–Indian Institute of Petroleum to recover Grade-A helium with 99.995% purity from natural gas.

Once operational, the facility will process 750 Nm³/hr of natural gas and has the flexibility to run at 110% of its designed capacity.

Why Helium Matters

Helium is a critical resource with applications in space exploration, semiconductors, fibre optics, and medical technologies. India currently depends on imports for its helium needs. Developing domestic capacity is a strategic step toward reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and advancing India’s technological capabilities.

ONGC’s Gas Production

In Q1 FY26, ONGC’s natural gas production stood at 4.963 billion cubic metres (BCM), including 4.846 BCM from its own operations and 0.117 BCM from joint ventures. For FY25, ONGC’s total gas production was 20.19 BCM.

ONGC Share Price Movement

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation share price (NSE: ONGC) is trading at ₹237.85, down 0.13% as of August 19, 2025. The stock opened at ₹237.50 and touched a high of ₹238.54 and a low of ₹236.68 during the day. ONGC has a market capitalisation of ₹2.99 lakh crore, a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 8.31, and offers a dividend yield of 5.15%. The company’s 52-week high stands at ₹338.75, while its 52-week low is ₹205.00. It also pays a quarterly dividend of ₹3.06 per share.

Read More: Defence Sector Q1 FY26 Results Snapshot: Mazagon Dock, BEL, Paras Defence and More.

Conclusion

The ONGC–Engineers India helium project is a major step for India’s energy and technological independence. By building domestic capacity in helium recovery, ONGC is not only diversifying its portfolio but also contributing to the country’s long-term strategic and industrial growth.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.