Mokokchung, 4 December (MTNews): In a parliamentary session today, Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, shed light on Assam’s substantial contributions to India’s energy sector. Responding to a Starred Question from Rajya Sabha MP Pabitra Margherita, the minister outlined key statistics and initiatives.
Assam stands as a cornerstone in the nation’s energy landscape, supplying approximately 14% of the total crude oil and 10% of the natural gas production. Minister Puri underscored Assam’s historical significance, noting that Asia’s first refinery was established in Digboi (Assam) in 1901, following the commencement of commercial crude oil production in 1889.
Addressing concerns about import dependence, Puri shared insights into the government’s efforts. Over the past four financial years (2019-20 to 2022-23), the State Government received Rs 9291 Crore for crude oil and Rs 851 crore for gas production in royalties. Major projects in the North East, valued at Rs 44000 crore, including the Numaligarh Refinery expansion, North East Gas Grid, Paradip-Numaligarh crude oil pipeline, and NRL Bio refinery, were highlighted.
The Numaligarh refinery’s upcoming 2G unit, boasting a capacity of 185 klpd, is poised to produce ethanol from bamboo, presenting significant employment opportunities for local farmers.
Minister Puri announced the extension of the City Gas Distribution network to cover all North Eastern States, ensuring affordable and clean cooking and vehicle fuel. The reduction of “No Go” areas in the Exclusive Economic Zone by almost 99% was emphasized, freeing up around 1 million square kilometers for exploration and production activities.
Technological advancements, well rehabilitation, and a capital expenditure of approximately Rs. 61000 crore are part of the government’s strategy to enhance production. Partnerships with international oil majors, such as ExxonMobil, Chevron, TotalEnergies, Shell, were highlighted as steps to attract foreign investment in the Exploration & Production sector.
Minister Puri celebrated the nation’s achievement in surpassing ethanol blending targets ahead of schedule, moving from 1.53% in 2014 to 12% in 2023. The transition towards flex fuel engine vehicles was mentioned, with E20 (20% ethanol blended fuel) already available at over 6000 retail outlets and set to be nationwide by 2025.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to alternative sources, Puri referenced efforts to promote Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG), Green Hydrogen, and Electric Vehicles (EVs). The inauguration of the Sui-Ka-Pha Multi-Speciality Hospital (350 beds) at Sivasagar, Assam, costing Rs. 483 crore, funded by ONGC under CSR activities, was the final note, emphasizing its role in catering to the healthcare needs of Upper Assam and neighboring districts of other states.