Question : TASK FORCE ON PETROLEUM HUBS



(a) whether the Government has set up a Task Force on petroleum hubs;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the said Task Force has submitted its report;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the action taken so far thereon?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS (SHRI DINSHA PATEL)

(a) to (e) In view of India`s export earnings of over Rs.28,000 crore from petroleum products in 2004-05, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOC) was asked to prepare a detailed feasibility study on making India as an investment destination for refineries, in particular export-oriented refineries, aimed at promoting India as the refining hub of South Asia / South-East Asia. The study was carried out by IOC along with M/s. Shell Global Solutions International B.V. IOC has submitted the feasibility report. The report has been given to PSUs.

In view of the delicensing of the refinery sector since June, 1998, it is now for the Boards of Oil PSUs to take a decision on setting up of more Petroleum infrastructure, based on economic considerations.