Black Gold Rush: Assam Becomes First Indian State in Oil Production

Assam is set to become the first Indian state to directly participate in oil production, following a significant hydrocarbon discovery at the Namrup Borhat-1 well in Dibrugarh district. The discovery, made in collaboration with Oil India Limited (OIL), marks a pivotal moment in the state’s energy journey.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the breakthrough on social media, calling it a “major step forward in energy security and economic resilience.” Long recognized as the cradle of India’s oil industry — with the country’s first oil well at Digboi — Assam remains a key contributor to domestic crude production. In 2023–24, the state produced 4.361 million tonnes of crude, ranking third nationally after Rajasthan and Gujarat.

This development represents a strategic shift for Assam — from being a resource-rich region to becoming an active stakeholder in oil production. Direct involvement will enable the state to earn substantial revenues and royalties, fostering long-term economic growth and improving local energy access.

The initiative is expected to boost regional development, attract fresh investments, and further solidify Assam’s position in India’s evolving energy landscape.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.