Itanagar, Jan 17: A significant milestone was achieved on Friday as the Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) in Arunachal Pradesh, in collaboration with Oil India Limited (OIL) and the Indian Institute of Petroleum & Energy (IIPE), launched ambitious initiatives to advance renewable energy and geosciences research in the state.
State Science & Technology Minister Dasanglu Pul, who also serves as the chairperson of CESHS, expressed her confidence in OIL’s efforts to accelerate the exploration and development of the state’s abundant natural resources, which is expected to boost state’s revenue.
During the inauguration of the OIL Itanagar Branch office, the minister highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between institutions to create a strong link between science, policy, and practical applications.
She emphasized the need to address critical challenges and enhance Arunachal Pradesh’s leadership in sustainability and renewable energy development, an official communiqué informed here.
“I believe today’s developments will drive socio-economic growth, enhance energy security, and position Arunachal Pradesh as a leader in geothermal energy in the Himalayan region,” Pul added.
OIL’s Director of Exploration & Development Saloma Yomdo, stressed the importance of industry-academic partnerships for the sustainable utilization of the state’s rich natural resources.
He pointed out Arunachal Pradesh’s significant potential in geothermal energy, critical minerals, and hydrocarbon exploration.
Yomdo also announced OIL’s strategic shift towards green energy and their plans to explore critical minerals, including a proposal for a business partnership with the Arunachal Pradesh government to develop the recently secured Phop critical mineral block in the state.
The event also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between CESHS and IIPE, a national institute of importance.
The partnership aims to drive advancements in geosciences research, including earth sciences, geotechnical investigations, and geothermal exploration in Arunachal Pradesh.
IIPE Director Prof Shalivahan Srivastava emphasized the shared vision between the two organizations for geosciences innovation, highlighting its potential to transform the state.
“This collaboration will propel advancements in geosciences, including petrophysical studies, geothermal and hydrogen exploration, and mineral development,” he said.
Prof Srivastava further stressed the mutual commitment to unlocking Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden resources through sustainable development, reinforcing the growing momentum in renewable energy and geosciences for the benefit of the state and the nation.
The meeting between CESHS and OIL focused on geothermal energy exploration, a promising clean energy source.
Both the organisations will conduct pre-feasibility studies, including surface and sub-surface analysis at four identified sites namely, Thingbu, Mago, Damteng, and Tsechu in Tawang district of the state.
CESHS Director Tana Tage presented a detailed work plan showcasing the region’s vast potential in renewable energy.
He highlighted geothermal energy’s promise to provide sustainable power, reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, and support industrial applications like agricultural drying, which will significantly contribute to the state's energy security and socio-economic development.
Tage explained that the project proposal was finalized after extensive engagements, taking into account the state’s unique geological and geographical setup.
“This collaboration sets the stage for a transformative journey in renewable energy and geosciences, paving the way for sustainable development in the region, fostering a cleaner energy future, and driving economic growth in Arunachal Pradesh,” Tage added.