Hardeep Singh Puri, a seasoned Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and diplomat, stepped into his new role as the Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas in the third term of the Modi government, commonly referred to as Modi 3.0.
His assumption of office marks a significant transition into the energy sector, where he brings with him a wealth of experience and a vision for transformative change.
In his inaugural address, Puri articulated his strategic agenda for the petroleum and natural gas sector, highlighting key initiatives and targets. He emphasised the imminent increase in oil production from the 98/2 well, projecting a rise to 45,000 barrels per day, alongside the commencement of gas production.
Puri's optimistic outlook extended to the domain of ethanol blending, where he announced that India had surpassed the milestone of 15% blending in May.
This achievement propelled the nation closer to its ambitious target of achieving 20% ethanol blending by 2025, a goal originally set for 2030 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Puri's confidence in meeting and potentially exceeding these targets reflects his deep understanding of the sector's dynamics and his commitment to realising the government's vision for energy self-sufficiency and sustainability.
His previous stint as the Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Civil Aviation, and Commerce and Industry has equipped him with the skills and acumen necessary to navigate the complexities of governance and policy making.
Before entering politics, Puri had a distinguished career in diplomacy, serving as India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2009 to 2013.
His diplomatic experience lends a global perspective to his current role, enabling him to engage effectively with international stakeholders and negotiate strategic partnerships in the energy sector.
Puri's journey from diplomacy to politics underscores his versatility and commitment to public service. His transition to the BJP in 2014 marked a new chapter in his career, culminating in his appointment as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh in November 2020.
Since then, he has been actively involved in shaping national policies and contributing to the BJP's vision for inclusive development and good governance.
As he assumes office as the Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Puri is poised to lead India's efforts towards energy security, innovation, and sustainability.
His leadership will be instrumental in driving reforms, attracting investments, and fostering technological advancements in the energy sector, thereby propelling India towards a brighter and more sustainable future.
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