Numaligarh Refinery Accorded Navratna Status

IN NEWS: Numaligarh Refinery Accorded Navratna Status

Why Numaligarh Refinery in News?

Numaligarh Refinery Ltd. (NRL) has been accorded Navratna status, becoming the 27th Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) to receive this recognition, as informed by the Union Petroleum Minister.

What is Numaligarh Refinery?

• A 3 MMTPA petroleum refinery located at Numaligarh, Golaghat district, Assam.

• Promoted by Oil India Ltd. holding 69.63% stake, with Assam Government (26%) and Engineers India Ltd. (4.37%) as stakeholders.

• Achieved a turnover of ₹25,147 crore and net profit of ₹1,608 crore in FY 2024-25.

Objectives of NRL as Navratna CPSE

1. Strengthen operations and expand refinery capacity through enhanced autonomy.
2. Promote energy security and green growth in the Northeast.
3. Support biofuel initiatives including bamboo-based 2G bioethanol production.
4. Contribute to self-reliance in petroleum products and national energy goals.

Role and Functions of Numaligarh Refinery

1. Production and refining of petroleum products for regional and national supply.
2. Implementation of renewable and biofuel-based projects.
3. Boost industrial development in Assam and northeastern states.
4. Support research, innovation and infrastructure upgrade for cleaner energy transition.

Significance of Navratna Status

1. Grants greater financial and operational autonomy for investments and joint ventures.
2. Enables faster decision making in expansion projects including refinery capacity enhancement under NREP.
3. Elevates NRL’s role as a strategic energy player in Northeast India.
4. Encourages diversification into bioethanol and green energy pathways.

Recent Expansion and Growth Highlights

1. Ongoing Numaligarh Refinery Expansion Project (NREP).
2. Recently commissioned ABEPL bamboo-based 2G bioethanol plant.
3. Focus on linking refinery operations with local feedstock for sustainable production.
4. Strengthens India’s push towards alternative fuels and carbon reduction.

Way Forward

1. Leverage Navratna autonomy for global partnerships and capacity enhancement.
2. Increase utilization of bamboo and agro-waste for bioethanol production.
3. Expand pipeline connectivity and product distribution infrastructure.
4. Enhance research on low-emission fuels, refining technology and green energy.
5. Drive inclusive development in Northeast through industry-linked employment.

Updated - 02 December 2025;9 : 14 PM | News Source: The Hindu