Assam opens oil & gas sector for exploration, CM assures industry support

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to facilitating oil and natural gas exploration by opening the sector to various organizations. 

Speaking at the business summit, Sarma assured investors that Assam will work closely with industries to unlock the state’s hydrocarbon potential.

“I would like to reassure that the Government of Assam will continuously work with you, and we are also opening the oil and natural gas sector for exploration by different organizations,” the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting major investment commitments, Sarma revealed that Vedanta Resources Limited, led by its Founder and Chairman Anil Agarwal, has pledged a massive Rs 50,000 crore investment in oil and gas exploration in Assam. Additionally, industrialist Gautam Adani has assured an investment of ₹5,000 crore in City Gas distribution, further strengthening Assam’s energy infrastructure.

Also Read: 'We wouldn’t let crude go, now we’re bringing it in': CM Sarma on Assam’s energy shift

Key players in the oil and gas sector, including Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), Oil India Limited (OIL), and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), have also shown significant interest in expanding their operations in the state. Sarma further hinted at a possible expansion of the Bongaigaon Refinery, subject to feasibility and future developments.

The Assam government’s proactive approach aligns with its broader vision of accelerating industrial growth, attracting private investment, and boosting employment opportunities in the state. With abundant hydrocarbon reserves and renewed investor confidence, Assam is poised to become a key hub for energy production in the Northeast.