In a significant development, the Centre has signed a historic tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Governments of Assam and Nagaland for the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the two northeastern states.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and his Nagaland counterpart Neiphiu Rio.
Speaking on the occasion, HM Amit Shah said that the signing of the MoU is a historic moment and that it will enhance the prospects for oil and natural gas exploration in the country. He said the MoU has successfully removed a major hurdle in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a prosperous and developed North East.
Mr Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has kept the North East at the forefront of his focus ever since he assumed office in 2014. Describing the MoU as a strong example of cooperative federalism, he added that it will pave the way for the economic development of both northeastern states.
Highlighting the global energy crisis due to the West Asia conflict, Mr Shah said that energy security is key to any country’s development, and this initiative will bolster India’s self-reliance in the future.
