Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Rameswar Teli replied that CSR is a Board-driven process and the Board is empowered to plan, approve, execute and monitor the CSR activities based on the recommendations of its CSR committee.

DMK leader S Kalyanasundaram in the Rajya Sabha asked the government if it plans to utilise the CSR funds of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) for the upcoming South Indian Kumbh Mela called as MAHAMAHAM, to be held in 2028.

He also asked if the funds will be utilised for the upgradation of basic civic amenities such as beautification of the areas around the temples, building of dharamshalas for the pilgrims, upgradation of railway stations, bus stands and other public transport and hospitals.

Replying to the written question, Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Rameswar Teli said Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a Board-driven process and the Board of the company is empowered to plan, approve, execute and monitor the CSR activities based on the recommendations of its CSR Committee.

Oil and Gas Public Sector Undertakings undertake CSR activities under the heads identified under Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013 with special focus on Health (Nutrition, Sanitation, and Drinking Water), Education, Skill Development, Rural Development, Women Empowerment, Environment Oriented Initiatives and Care for the Elderly and Differently-abled Persons, he responded.