Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the Assam Bioethanol Plant and laid the foundation stone for a polypropylene plant at Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) in Golaghat, Assam. Speaking at the event, Modi said that projects worth Rs 18,000 crore have been allocated to the state. He inaugurated a bamboo-based bioethanol plant and laid the foundation for a polypropylene plant, projects expected to create new opportunities for farmers and youth.
He underlined that ethanol is a key alternative fuel to reduce dependence on imported oil and gas and informed that bamboo farmers will be supported through procurement and small-scale processing units, with an annual investment of around Rs 200 crore in the sector.
Earlier in the day, he had also laid the foundation stones for connectivity and health projects in Darrang. Highlighting Assam’s role in strengthening India’s energy capabilities, Modi said that petroleum products from the state have long contributed to national development, and the government is committed to expanding this strength.
Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of polypropylene in daily life, from packaging materials to medical kits and automotive components. He said the new polypropylene plant would not only promote ‘Make in Assam’ but also strengthen ‘Make in India’, boosting industries across the region.
Referring to India’s growing energy demand, he reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing foreign dependence through new crude oil exploration, renewable energy expansion, and initiatives such as National Deepwater Exploration Mission. He also pointed to India’s rapid rise in solar power capacity, placing it among the top five globally.
Modi linked the day’s inaugurations to larger national initiatives, including the Semiconductor Mission, under which a Rs 27,000 crore semiconductor factory is coming up in Morigaon. He noted that Assam is becoming an important hub for high-tech and energy-related industries while also preserving its cultural and historical heritage. He recalled the government’s efforts to honor figures like Lachit Borphukan and to renovate historic sites such as Rang Ghar and Batadrava, alongside developing a Maa Kamakhya Corridor to boost tourism and employment.
Turning to governance, Modi said that while the opposition neglected Assam and promoted divisive politics, the current government is focused on empowerment and welfare. He highlighted land rights distribution under Mission Basundhara, housing for over 20 lakh families, tap water connections, and schemes for tea garden workers, especially women and children. He stressed that the government’s mantra is “Nagrik Devo Bhava,” ensuring no citizen is left behind in the development journey.
The event was attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with other dignitaries.
