Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday said Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) plans to expand its presence in the state with investments in refinery, biofuel and biogas projects, a move the government expects will generate jobs and boost economic activity.
The investment plans were discussed during a meeting between Mann and HPCL Chairman Vikas Kaushal in Chandigarh.
According to the Punjab government, HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL), the joint venture operating the Bathinda refinery, is looking to expand its operations in the state, including through biofuel and biogas projects.
Mann said the proposed investments would strengthen Punjab’s economy while creating employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
“It is encouraging
that HPCL has shown keen interest in investing in key sectors such as refinery and biogas in Punjab. These investments will significantly benefit the state and open new avenues of employment,” he said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted HMEL’s work on second-generation (2G) biofuel technology at Bathinda, saying the initiative could help create value from agricultural residue while supporting the state’s biofuel sector.
Punjab currently faces a recurring challenge of stubble management, with the government promoting biofuel and biogas projects as one way to utilise agricultural waste.
Mann said HMEL is setting up 10 biogas plants across Punjab, of which five have already become operational. He claimed the projects would help manage agricultural residue while offering benefits to farmers.
During the meeting, the chief minister pitched Punjab as an investment destination, citing its location, industrial infrastructure, power availability, and recent business reforms.
He also referred to the state’s single-window clearance mechanism and amendments aimed at speeding up approvals for businesses.
Mann said the state’s business environment had improved significantly and assured HPCL of full support for future expansion plans in Punjab.
Senior state government officials were also present during the meeting.
