Guwahati, March 29: Oil India Limited (OIL) reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable livelihood initiatives through its flagship CSR project ‘Rupantar’, organizing its annual financial and material disbursement program at the OIL CSR Activity Complex, Swanirbhar, Tipling, Duliajan on Saturday.
The event was attended by Duliajan MLA Terash Gowalla, Co-District Commissioner Ankur Das, OIL’s RCE Rupjyoti Phukan, ED-BD & Additional Charge PR (Corporate) Ranjan Goswami, ED (HR & FA) Madhurjya Barua, ED (F & A) Rupam Baruah, and other senior officials from OIL. Beneficiaries of the project were also present, celebrating the impact of Rupantar on their economic empowerment.
Since its launch in 2008-09, Project Rupantar has emerged as a game-changer for livelihood generation in Assam. The initiative has supported 4,676 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), benefiting 28,785 families through skill development, financial aid, and management training.
Continuing this legacy, in the fiscal year 2024-25, OIL has extended its support to 428 JLGs, benefiting 1,925 families. The total cost of Project Rupantar for the fiscal year 2024-25 stands at Rs. 9.21 crores, reinforcing Oil India Limited’s commitment to fostering sustainable livelihood opportunities and socio-economic empowerment.
Under this initiative, 227 Handloom JLGs, consisting exclusively of women beneficiaries, received 1,135 fly shuttle handloom sets, 7,945 kgs of yarn, accessories, and a revolving fund of Rs. 22.70 lakh. The Farm Mechanisation JLGs, comprising 136 groups, were provided with 136 power tillers, 136 water pumps, 136 sprayer machines, and a total subsidy of Rs. 1.42 crores. Furthermore, 15 Agro Product Carrier groups received 15 vehicles along with a subsidy of Rs. 15.00 lakh.
20 Biofloc Aquaculture groups were supported with 40 fish-rearing tanks of 10,000 litres each, 1,60,000 fish seeds, and essential equipment such as inverters, water motors, and oxygen meters. Additionally, 10 Power Reaper (Harvester) groups were provided with 10 reapers and a subsidy of Rs. 8.00 lakh. In recognition of the successful weaving clusters, 20 special handloom groups received Ball Bearing Jacquard Machines, further enhancing weaving productivity and efficiency.
In addition to the distribution program, an exhibition was organized to showcase the value-added products created by successful weaving clusters operating under ‘Rupantar,’ with a special focus on the Baghjan Cluster.
Speaking at the event, Duliajan MLA Terash Gowalla lauded OIL’s contribution to community empowerment, highlighting the role of ‘Rupantar’ in strengthening the socio-economic fabric of the region. He urged beneficiaries to make the most of the resources provided and support OIL’s initiatives.
OIL RCE Rupjyoti Phukan emphasized the company’s long-term commitment to sustainable development, calling self-help groups and joint liability groups the backbone of economic self-sufficiency in Assam.
An exhibition was also organized, featuring value-added handloom products created by weaving clusters under ‘Rupantar.’ The Baghjan Cluster, in particular, received special recognition for its innovative weaving techniques and high-quality textile products.
Project Rupantar has become a powerful tool for socio-economic transformation, directly benefiting thousands of families in OIL’s operational districts in Upper Assam. Through such initiatives, OIL continues to position itself as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that local communities thrive through sustainable and skill-based employment opportunities.
