Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has flagged off the first rake of its indigenously developed Extreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel from the Bina Refinery, marking a major push to strengthen fuel reliability for Indian Army operations in extreme winter and high-altitude conditions.

 

The rake was ceremonially flagged off on August 17 by Lt Gen Mukesh Chadha, DGST, IHQ of MoD (Army), in the presence of Subhankar Sen, Director (Marketing), BPCL, and senior officials from the Indian Army, Indian Railways and BPCL.

 

Developed by BPCL after assessing the operational challenges faced by the Indian Army in severe climatic conditions, XWG Diesel has been engineered to deliver reliable performance at extreme temperatures. BPCL’s Corporate Research & Development Centre (CRDC), in collaboration with the Bina Refinery, developed the specialised fuel through indigenous research and technological innovation.

 

The fuel features an ultra-low pour point and low cold filter plugging point (CFPP), along with improved cold-start capability, drivability and reliability. It is also designed to reduce field maintenance requirements in harsh operating environments.

 

The first rake dispatch underscores BPCL’s growing role in supporting India’s strategic and defence requirements, with the company positioning the specialised fuel as a key enabler for military logistics and mission readiness in high-altitude areas.

 

Subhankar Sen, Director (Marketing), BPCL, said, “the successful development of Extreme Weather Grade Diesel and the dispatch of the first rake is an excellent example of BPCL’s research capabilities, technological excellence and commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat.” He added, “BPCL remains committed to providing innovative energy solutions aligned with the nation’s strategic requirements.”

 

Calling the milestone a significant achievement for the refinery, KK Das, Executive Director, BPCL Bina Refinery, said, “The flag-off of the first XWG Diesel rake is a moment of immense pride for Bina Refinery. This achievement is the result of excellent coordination and teamwork across BPCL’s research, refining, marketing and logistics functions."

 

He expressed confidence that Bina Refinery would continue to develop high-quality specialised products serving national interests.

 

Manoj Menon, Business Head (Industrial & Commercial Solutions), BPCL, said, “BPCL continues to work towards providing specialised energy solutions for the country’s strategic sectors, and ensuring uninterrupted and reliable fuel supplies to the Indian Armed Forces remains among its highest priorities.”

 

The dispatch marks another step in BPCL’s drive towards technological self-reliance and specialised fuel production. It also highlights Bina Refinery’s capability to manufacture fuels tailored to the demanding requirements of India’s strategic sectors.