Guwahati: In a step toward embracing green energy, the Assam cabinet has approved an agreement with Reliance Industries to move away from fossil fuels.
The Cabinet has approved the Memorandum of Understanding between M/s Reliance Bio-Energy Limited and Govt. of Assam for promoting compressed biogas sector in the state. As per the understanding, a network of integrated compressed bio-gas infrastructure will be established in the state. This initiative will ensure reduction of pollution created by fossil fuels without endangering food security and significant employment and income for the farmers, by developing Biovalue chain ecosystem
To boost rural development through connectivity and irrigation, the cabinet has also approved the construction of 97 rural roads and 70 minor irrigation projects in the state. These projects will improve connectivity in 23 districts and assist farmers in 28 districts of Assam, with a total expenditure of ₹428.62 crore under NABARD’s RIDF-XXX scheme.
After a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared, “Reliance Bio Energy and Assam’s Compressed Bio Gas Sector have agreed to sign the MoU. Following this, there are plans to research how to produce green fuel and ensure a smooth transition from fossil fuels.”
The Chief Minister also emphasised that there would be thorough discussions on the project’s feasibility. “We’ll discuss how practical and achievable this transition will be in Assam,” Sarma stated, adding that the Cabinet is keen on exploring every possible avenue for making this shift.
The Reliance Industries have already shown interest in setting up a biorefinery in state and Chief Minister Sarma, during Assam Tribune Dialogue on September 14, had confirmed this news. “I got a letter from the Reliance Industries saying that they seek to set up six biorefineries in the country and have chosen Assam as one of its destinations,” he had said.
