Dr. Ranjit Rath, Chairman of Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL), announced at the India Energy Week 2026 that the refinery’s capacity expansion from 3 million tonnes to 9 million tonnes per annum will be completed by the end of the year, enabling it to process imported crude oil for the first time. Currently reliant on domestic crude for fuel production, NRL aims to diversify its feedstock following this expansion, with initial processing already initiated. Dr. Rath further discussed the expansive growth potential in India’s upstream energy sector, emphasizing the importance of progressive policies, collaboration, and technology to enhance frontier exploration. He noted Oil India’s strategic move from onshore to challenging offshore exploration and urged investors to consider the opportunities within India’s energy landscape, citing a supportive policy environment and potential in frontier and deepwater plays. Reiterating the need for partnerships, he portrayed Oil India as a proactive entity willing to embrace risks and collaborate with global experts for mutual benefits. He concluded with an encouraging perspective on the future of new discoveries, affirming Oil India’s commitment to enhancing India’s energy security.
