Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 12: In a major 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 and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

Speaking on the occasion, Amit Shah described the agreement as a historic step, stating that it would strengthen oil and natural gas exploration prospects in the country. He said the MoU removes key hurdles in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a prosperous and developed Northeast.

Shah further said that the Prime Minister has given special focus to the development of the northeastern region since 2014, and termed the agreement a strong example of cooperative federalism that would boost economic growth in Assam and Nagaland.

Highlighting global energy concerns amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, Shah stressed that energy security is vital for national development. He said the initiative would enhance India’s long-term self-reliance in the energy sector.