GUWAHATI: In a recent parliamentary session, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri emphasised the pivotal role played by the state of Assam in India's energy landscape. Responding to a starred question raised by Rajya Sabha MP Pabitra Margherita, Minister Puri noted that Assam contributes approximately 14 per cent of the country's total crude oil production and around 10 per cent of its natural gas production.
Puri outlined major projects in the North East region, amounting to ₹44,000 crore, including the expansion of Numaligarh Refinery, North East Gas Grid, Paradip-Numaligarh crude oil pipeline, and NRL Bio-refinery. Notably, the 2G refinery at Numaligarh, with a capacity of 185 klpd, will produce ethanol from bamboo, fostering employment opportunities for local farmers.
The Minister informed the House about the extensive coverage of the City Gas Distribution network in all North Eastern States, aiming to provide affordable and clean cooking and vehicle fuel. He concluded by mentioning the inauguration of the Sui-Ka-Pha Multi-Speciality Hospital in Sivasagar, Assam, with a total cost of ₹483 crore, funded by ONGC under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, benefiting Upper Assam and neighbouring districts.
