Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a comprehensive array of oil and gas sector projects totaling approximately ₹1.62 lakh crore across several states in India, commencing from Bihar’s Begusarai district. These projects, spanning regions like Bihar, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Karnataka, mark a significant step towards fortifying India’s energy security and fostering economic resilience.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasized his commitment to Bihar’s development through the ‘Viksit Bharat’ program. He lauded Begusarai for its abundance of talented youth and its enduring support for farmers and laborers. The prime minister expressed optimism that the unveiled projects would propel India towards becoming the world’s third-largest economic power while facilitating Bihar’s prosperity.
During the event, PM Modi flagged off four trains, including the Danapur-Jogbani Express and trains from Jogbani to Saharsa and Siliguri, along with the Sonpur-Vaishali Express. These initiatives are poised to enhance connectivity and accessibility, contributing to the socio-economic advancement of the regions served.
Among the noteworthy projects inaugurated, the prime minister dedicated the ‘First Oil’ from the KG Basin and flagged off the maiden crude oil tanker from the ONGC Krishna Godavari deepwater project, underscoring the nation’s march towards self-reliance in the oil and gas sector.
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Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep S Puri hailed the occasion as historic, witnessing the inauguration and laying of foundation stones for 45 development projects valued at ₹1.62 lakh crore. Notable among these are initiatives worth approximately ₹14,000 crore earmarked for Bihar, including the expansion of the Barauni Refinery and grid infrastructure projects.
Other significant ventures include the expansion of the Panipat Refinery & Petrochemical Complex in Haryana, the Visakh Refinery Modernization Project in Andhra Pradesh, and the establishment of a city gas distribution network in Punjab and a new POL depot in Karnataka.
PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy in Visakhapatnam and inaugurated the Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd (HURL) fertilizer plant in Barauni, aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity and farmers’ financial stability.
Additionally, the prime minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various railway projects, enhancing connectivity and facilitating socio-economic development. Notably, the inauguration of ‘Bharat Pashudhan,’ a digital database for livestock animals, and the launch of the ‘1962 Farmers App,’ signify the government’s commitment to empowering farmers through technological advancements.
In sum, the unveiling of these projects marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards energy security, economic prosperity, and inclusive development across regions.
