Punjab’s emergence as a preferred investment destination received another major endorsement on Monday as Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann secured significant investment commitments from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), with the energy major announcing plans to expand its footprint in the state through investments in refinery, biofuel and biogas sectors.
During a meeting with HPCL Chairman Vikas Kaushal, the Chief Minister highlighted Punjab’s robust infrastructure, strategic location, investor-friendly policies and transparent governance framework, which have helped position the state as North India’s most attractive investment hub. The meeting also saw HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) announce further expansion of its operations in Punjab, including biofuel and biogas projects that are expected to generate employment, strengthen the rural economy, support industrial growth and provide a sustainable solution for agricultural waste management.
During the meeting, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann showcased Punjab’s position as North India’s preferred investment destination, highlighting the state’s strategic location, seamless connectivity to the National Capital Region and major ports, strong industrial clusters, uninterrupted quality power supply, skilled workforce and progressive policy ecosystem. The Chief Minister also apprised the HPCL delegation about Punjab’s governance and regulatory reforms, including the Fast Track Punjab single-window system offering more than 173 government-to-business services, auto-deemed approvals, PAN-based business identifiers and amendments to the Punjab Right to Business Act that enable time-bound in-principle approvals.
During this, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The vision of the Punjab Government is simple and clear. We want to make Punjab a preferred destination for global industry by offering stability in policy, speed in decision-making and a governance system that respects the time and trust of investors.”
The Chief Minister reiterated that the Punjab Government is fully committed to encouraging investments and creating a conducive environment for industry. “It is encouraging that HPCL has shown keen interest in investing in key sectors such as refinery and biogas in Punjab. These investments will significantly benefit the state. Apart from giving a major boost to economic activity, these projects will open new avenues of employment for the youth of Punjab,” he stated.
The Chief Minister further noted, “It is heartening that HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited is further expanding its operations in Bathinda by working on 2G technology. This initiative has immense potential to strengthen the biofuel sector while creating value from agricultural residue.”
He further informed that the company is in the process of establishing ten biogas plants across Punjab, of which five have already become operational. “These biogas projects will go a long way in ensuring effective management of agricultural waste in the state. This will not only help address environmental concerns but will also immensely benefit farmers,” added CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Assuring full support and cooperation to the HPCL delegation, the Chief Minister said that the Punjab Government remains steadfast in its commitment to attracting investment and facilitating industrial expansion. “Investors are true patriots who serve the nation by making large investments, creating jobs for youth and ushering in an era of unprecedented progress and prosperity. The Punjab Government stands firmly with every investor who wishes to contribute to the growth of the state,” asserted CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He further assured the delegation that the business environment in Punjab has undergone a complete transformation. “There was a time when investors faced unnecessary hurdles and undue demands. Today, the Punjab Government is working solely for the welfare of Punjab and Punjabis and is committed to ensuring a transparent, investor-friendly ecosystem,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Ravi Bhagat, Secretary Industries Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary Rural Development Ajit Bala Ji Joshi and other senior officers were also present during the meeting.
Published – June 02, 2026 02:53 pm IST
