Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs, lauded the significant milestone achieved by IndianOil in producing ‘Reference Gasoline and Diesel Fuels’ for the first time in India. The launch event, which marked a pioneering achievement, was attended by Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, and Shri S.M. Vaidya, Chairperson of Indian Oil.
Minister Puri highlighted that this achievement showcases India’s indigenous technical expertise, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative and contributing to the vision of an “AtmaNirbhar Bharat” as envisaged by the Hon’ble Prime Minister. This endeavor not only reduces India’s reliance on fuel imports but also positions the nation as a significant player in the global energy industry, equipped with unique capabilities.
He also discussed the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas’s four-pronged energy security strategy, which aims to make India “energy-independent” by 2047. This strategy includes diversifying energy sources, expanding exploration and production, promoting alternative energy sources and transitioning to a gas-based economy, and advancing green hydrogen and electric vehicles.
Minister Puri commended the efforts of Indian Oil and other oil companies in fulfilling national goals and commitments, particularly in the areas of clean energy, the transition to BS-VI fuels, the introduction of EV charging stations, Compressed Biogas (CBG), Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Ethanol blending, and Hydrogen fuels. He highlighted Panipat Refinery & Petrochemicals Complex as a flagship facility leading in green initiatives, including India’s first 2G & 3G ethanol plants. He mentioned the upcoming 10 KTA green hydrogen plant at Panipat, which further accelerates Indian Oil’s transition to green energy.
Referring to the Paradip Refinery as the most advanced and complex refinery in India, capable of processing 100% high sulfur crude oil, he noted its significant achievement in handling the 1000th vessel at the south oil jetty. Minister Puri praised IndianOil’s Research & Development Centre for its role in producing the reference fuel and achieving the milestone of filing 1500 patents. He recognized their pioneering work in the success of this project.
He also discussed India’s efforts to reduce emissions, including the expedited implementation of fuel blending and the sale of E20 blended fuel at petrol retail outlets. He mentioned the introduction of green hydrogen fuel cell buses in Delhi, emphasizing the commitment to eco-friendly alternatives.
Acknowledging India’s position as the 5th largest economy globally, Minister Puri highlighted the country’s role as a prominent player in the global energy market, emphasizing the importance of innovation in the gas and energy sector.
Regarding the Reference Fuels, IndianOil has successfully produced Reference Gasoline and Diesel Fuels for the first time in India. These fuels are used for calibration and testing of vehicles by automobile manufacturers and testing agencies. The development of these fuels aligns with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) vision. IndianOil’s refineries and R&D teams worked diligently to meet international standards and provide import-substituting products for vehicle manufacturers. The Reference Gasoline fuels will be available in various blends, and Reference Diesel fuel will be available in B7 grade from IndianOil’s Paradip and Panipat Refineries, respectively. These Reference Fuels meet stringent specifications and offer reduced lead time and better pricing compared to imported products.
