India's First Helium Recovery Plant: A Strategic Leap for Self-Reliance

ONGC Energy Centre Trust has partnered with Engineers India Ltd to set up India's first Helium Recovery Demonstration Plant in Tamil Nadu. Valued at Rs 39.42 crore, the plant aims to produce high-purity Helium, bolstering India's self-reliance in a resource critical for science and technology.

ONGC Energy Centre Trust, the cutting-edge R&D arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd, announced a groundbreaking initiative on Tuesday. In collaboration with Engineers India Ltd, ONGC is set to establish the nation's first Helium Recovery Demonstration Plant in Tamil Nadu.

The Rs 39.42 crore project, excluding taxes, will rise at ONGC's Kuthalam Gas Collection Station. This venture leverages technology from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Petroleum to extract high-purity Helium from natural gas, addressing India's dependence on imports for this vital resource.

This initiative not only marks a significant leap for indigenous technological capabilities but also aligns with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' agenda, promising enhanced energy security for India. The plant, processing 750 Nm3/hr of natural gas, is a testament to ONGC and Engineers India Ltd's commitment to transforming research into practical, industry-leading applications.

(With inputs from agencies.)