Question 571
Which of the following oil fields is located in Assam?
Answer
Digboi
Why?
The correct answer is Digboi . Key Points Digboi is a renowned oil town located in the northeastern state of Assam , India. It is famously known as the oldest oil refinery in Asia and one of the oldest functioning refineries in the world. Oil was first discovered in Digboi in the late 19th century , specifically in 1867 , by British engineers working on railway construction in the region. The establishment of the Digboi refinery began in 1901 , and operations started in 1906 . This makes it a historical and industrial landmark in the global oil industry. Digboi's oil fields have been instrumental in contributing to India’s petroleum industry . The refinery continues to process crude oil and manufacture petroleum products. The town of Digboi is not just an industrial hub but also a tourist attraction, with its colonial heritage, oil museum, and the famous Digboi War Cemetery , which commemorates soldiers from World War II. Additional Information Key Features of Digboi: Located in the Tinsukia district of Assam , Digboi lies in a region known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. The name "Digboi" is said to have originated from the phrase "Dig, boy, dig!" which was reportedly used by the British engineers during their search for oil in the area. The oil fields of Digboi are part of the extensive Assam-Arakan Basin , one of the most significant petroleum-producing regions in India. Other Options Explained: Kharsang: Located in Arunachal Pradesh, not Assam. It is another oil field, but geographically distinct from Digboi. Cambay: Situated in Gujarat, Cambay is a prominent oil field in western India and unrelated to Assam’s oil fields. Ravva: Located in Andhra Pradesh, it is an offshore oil and gas field, far from the northeastern region of India. Historical Significance of Digboi: Digboi played a crucial role in India’s industrialization , particularly in the oil and energy sector. The Digboi oil refinery is managed by the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) , ensuring its continued operation and modernization. It serves as a reminder of India’s technological and industrial heritage during British colonial rule. Petroleum Industry in Assam: Assam is one of the leading states in India for crude oil production , accounting for a significant portion of the country’s total output. Other important oil fields in Assam include Rudrasagar, Moran, and Naharkatiya . The state is also home to natural gas fields and supports several refineries, such as the Numaligarh Refinery . Important Points The Assam-Arakan Basin is considered one of India’s oldest and most important sedimentary basins for hydrocarbon exploration. Digboi’s development marked the beginning of India’s petroleum industry , which has since expanded to other regions such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, and offshore fields in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Assam’s oil fields are crucial for meeting India’s energy needs and reducing dependence on imported crude oil. The Digboi Oil Museum offers insights into the history of oil exploration in India, showcasing antique equipment and photographs from the early 20th century.
