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ONGC Chairman Arun Kumar Singh has been granted a surprise one-year extension just as the government forms a new committee to find his permanent successor. Why the sudden move and what it means for India’s energy giant is worth watching.
ONGC chairman Arun Kumar Singh gets 1 year extension
New Delhi: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a one-year extension for Arun Kumar Singh, Chairman of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), according to an official order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
The extension will be effective from December 7, 2025, places Singh on re-employment on a contractual basis for an additional year or until a regular chairman assumes charge whichever comes earlier.
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The ACC’s order states that Singh’s continuation will be governed by terms and conditions finalized by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in consultation with the Department of Public Enterprises.
His extension ensures uninterrupted leadership at ONGC, a key public sector undertaking responsible for India’s domestic oil and gas production.
ONGC chairman 1-year extension order
Singh, who first took charge in 2022, has been overseeing ONGC’s ongoing exploration and production strategies, along with its broader energy transition goals. His re-appointment signals the government’s preference for maintaining operational stability during a period marked by global energy volatility and domestic sectoral challenges.
Along with the extension, the ACC has also announced the formation of a Search-cum-Selection Committee (SCSC) tasked with identifying a regular Chairman for ONGC. The committee will evaluate candidates and recommend a successor for the top post.
According to the official communication, the SCSC will comprise:
Chairman, PESB: Chairperson
Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas: Member
B. Ashok, former Chairman, IOCL: Member (Outside expert)
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This step indicates the government’s intent to move ahead with the selection process while ensuring the organisation does not face a leadership vacuum.
The dual move offering a one-year extension and establishing the selection committee reflects the Centre’s approach of combining continuity with long-term succession planning. With ONGC spearheading India’s crude oil and natural gas output, stable leadership remains vital for ongoing projects and future energy planning.
Singh’s extension will allow ONGC to maintain momentum on strategic projects while the newly constituted committee works toward appointing a permanent head.
