"The Kochi Refinery had embarked on a great journey by processing 2.5 Million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) and presently is in the threshold of becoming a world-class refinery with crude oil refining capacity of 15.5 MMTPA," the Oil and Petroleum Minister said.

 

Pradhan was speaking at a function to commemorate BPCLBSE -0.83 % Kochi Refinery's Golden Jubilee here.

 

The refinery is also setting up a petrochemical complex which would enhance the value chain, generate employment opportunities and increase economic activity in Kerala, he said.

 

BPCL will set up a green bio-fuel refinery to produce ethanol at Kochi by converting agricultural and municipal waste, he added.

 

The minister said about Rs 30,000 crore worth of investment is being implemented in Kerala including that of enhancing crude refining capacity of Kochi Refinery and the petrochemical complex.

 

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P J Kurian and State Power Minister Kadakampally Surendran were among those present on the occasion.

 

Meanwhile, a press release said Kochi Refinery is undertaking the implementation of its Integrated Refinery Expansion Project (IREP) which is in its final stages.

 

On other activities, release said BPCL in collaboration with other oil companies and the state government is setting up a world-class skill development institute at Ettumanoor near Kottayam.

 

A framework agreement to this effect has been signed with the state government and select courses will be started in November 2016.

 

Nettur Technical Training Foundation(NTTF) has been identified as the training partner for conducting the skill development training programme.