ProMASS News Bureau: Feb 7, 2016:
Government is targeting to reduce country’s oil import dependence by 10 per cent by 2022 by creating policy environment that supports raising domestic output and mixing bio-fuels like ethanol in auto fuels. Dedicating Indian Oil Corporation’s new state of the art refinery at Paradip in Odisha to the nation today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the plant is very significant for the development of the state. He said the refinery has established a records of sorts when it comes to Make In India and it will change the fate of youth of Odisha.
In a apparent remarks over delay in completion of projects, the Prime Minister said the centre is trying to bring a new work culture where projects are conceived in time and completed on time. He also rejected Congress’ charge that projects he has been inaugurating in recent months were all started during their time. Mr. Modi said he would have been happy if the projects were completed 15 years back and led to creation of jobs. Talking about MUDRA Yojana, Mr. Modi said it has given opportunity to country’s youths to stand on their own feet and become job creators instead of job seekers.
Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, the plant will truly be a gateway to opportunities in Odisha and Eastern India. He said, Paradip is linked with Odisha’s pride and the refinery has come up after 50 years of Paradip Port. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, the refinery will provide jobs to the youth of the state. Odisha Governor Dr S C Jamir and Sri Lankan Deputy Minister of Oil and Gas Anoma Gamage were among other dignitaries present during the function. Over thirty four thousand five hundred crore rupees Paradip refinery is the most advanced in the world and is equipped with the latest technology. With this the state-owned firm has again become country’s top refiner. The foundation stone of 15 million tonne per annum capacity refinery was laid by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000.
Located 140 km from Bhubaneswar, it is one of the most modern refineries in the world which can process cheaper high sulphur heavy crude oils. The first consignment of products comprising high speed diesel, superior kerosene oil and LPG from the refinery was first flagged off in November last year.
