Assam: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) hosted a pivotal seminar titled “Gas Market Development for Domestic Gas and Pipeline Connectivity to Northeast India” to address the region’s energy infrastructure challenges and enhance its integration into the national gas grid. The seminar gathered senior government officials, industry stakeholders, and energy experts to discuss how expanding gas accessibility could drive economic growth and energy security in the Northeast.
The event opened with an inaugural address by A.K. Tiwari, Member of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), who emphasized the government’s commitment to building a strong gas infrastructure in Northeast India. Tiwari stressed that strategic investments and regulatory support are crucial for making gas more affordable and accessible in the region, which is key for its economic sustainability.
Rajesh K. Mediratta, Managing Director and CEO of the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX), highlighted IGX’s role in creating a sustainable, integrated gas ecosystem in the Northeast. Mediratta discussed the importance of regulatory reforms and infrastructure investments in ensuring seamless connectivity between Northeast India and the national gas grid.
Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General of PHDCCI, emphasized the role of Northeast India in India’s gas-based economy and outlined how tapping into domestic gas resources can promote regional growth. He reiterated PHDCCI’s commitment to fostering policies that support industrial development in the region.
The seminar also featured a panel discussion moderated by Deepak Mehta, Chief Business Officer of IGX. Industry experts including Mr. Jayanta Narayan Das from IGGL, Mr. Manish Khandelwal of GAIL, and Mr. Suman Mishra from Indian Oil Corporation discussed practical strategies for enhancing gas connectivity in the region. The panelists shared insights into the necessary policy and regulatory measures for connecting Northeast India to the national gas grid, which would benefit both industries and households.
Bibhuti Dutta, Resident Director of PHDCCI’s Northeast region, concluded the event by expressing gratitude to all participants and sponsors, including primary sponsors IGX and GAIL. He emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in creating a resilient energy infrastructure for the Northeast.
The seminar was supported by several prominent sponsors including DLF Ltd, Jindal Steel & Power, KLJ Group, Radico Khaitan Ltd, Uflex Ltd, and Samsung India Electronics.