The Union cabinet has approved an investment of Rs 794.59 billion (bn) by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) for a refinery project in Rajasthan, the government announced. The figure corresponds to 79,459 crore under traditional accounting. The approval clears the way for detailed planning and necessary clearances. The decision follows formal proposals from the company and has been described by officials as a strategic infrastructure investment.

The investment is intended to expand refining capacity and upgrade processing units to meet tighter fuel quality standards and growing domestic demand. It will include construction of associated storage and logistics facilities and enhancements to emissions control systems to align operations with environmental norms. The project is expected to integrate with local supply chains and support downstream industries. Planners are expected to incorporate modern emissions controls and efficiency measures to reduce environmental impact during operation.

Officials indicated the project will strengthen energy security by increasing domestic refined product availability and reducing import dependence. The scale of the investment is likely to generate significant employment in the construction phase and support long term jobs in operations and maintenance. Local economies are expected to benefit from associated infrastructure spending and supplier contracts. The project is also expected to catalyse ancillary services and skill development in the region.

HPCL will move to finalise detailed project reports, secure statutory approvals and arrange financing, with oversight from relevant ministries. The cabinet decision sets the policy framework for the project but did not specify a commercial timeline for completion. Authorities described the step as consistent with broader objectives to boost industrial investment and fuel supply resilience. Stakeholders have been informed that progress will be monitored against regulatory benchmarks and subject to periodic review.