PM Modi Unveils World’s First Bamboo-Based Ethanol Plant in Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the world’s first bamboo-based second-generation bioethanol plant at Numaligarh in Assam’s Golaghat district on September 14, 2025. This ₹5,000-crore facility is a landmark in India’s push for cleanenergy and rural development.

Key Highlights

• Zero-Waste Facility: Utilizes every part of the bamboo plant to produce ethanol, acetic acid, furfural, and food-grade CO₂.
• Annual Input: Sources 5 lakh tonnes of green bamboo from four northeastern states, including Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Economic Impact: Expected to inject ₹200 crore annually into Assam’s rural economy and benefit over 50,000 people directly and indirectly.
• Strategic Partnership: Joint venture between Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL), Finland’s Fortum, and Chempolis OY.
• Energy Vision: Modi emphasized the plant’s role in reducing fossil fuel dependence and achieving energy self-sufficiency under the Viksit Bharat vision.

Beyond Ethanol

PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for a ₹7,230-crore polypropylene plant nearby, aimed at reducing India’s import dependency and boosting local manufacturing.

Modi’s Message

“India is one of the fastest-growing economies. Our energy needs are rising, and we must reduce dependence on imports. This bamboo-based ethanol plant is a step toward self-reliance and clean energy.”

This project not only marks a technological milestone but also repositions Assam as a hub for sustainable industrial innovation.