Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has assured Parliament that India’s crude oil and fuel supply remain secure, despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia that have disrupted global energy markets. The reassurance comes amid concerns that the conflict affecting shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz could impact global oil and gas supply.
Global Energy Disruption Due to West Asia Conflict
The current crisis has created one of the biggest disruptions in global energy supply in decades. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which nearly 20% of the world’s crude oil, natural gas, and LPG flows, has been severely affected due to escalating military tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Because of the disruption, several countries have introduced strict energy-saving measures such as reduced fuel consumption, limited office operations, and even temporary closures of institutions.
India’s Oil Supply Remains Stable
Despite the global crisis, the government has emphasized that India has secured enough crude oil supplies through alternative routes and sources. According to the minister, the country has managed to obtain crude volumes that exceed what would normally arrive through the Hormuz route, ensuring uninterrupted supply.
India has also diversified its oil import sources. The country now imports crude from around 40 countries, reducing dependence on any single region and strengthening its energy security.
No Shortage of Petrol, Diesel, or LPG
The government clarified that petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, kerosene, and LPG supplies remain stable across the country. Retail fuel outlets are adequately stocked, and consumers should not panic about shortages.
To further protect domestic consumers, the government has instructed refiners to increase LPG production and prioritize household supply. In fact, LPG production has reportedly increased by about 28% in recent days to ensure that cooking gas availability remains unaffected for Indian families.
Diversifying Energy Sources
India is also increasing imports of LPG and energy supplies from new partners such as the United States, Norway, Canada, and Russia, reducing reliance on traditional Gulf suppliers.
The strategy aims to ensure uninterrupted supply even during global disruptions and strengthen India’s long-term energy resilience.
Conclusion
Even as the West Asia conflict disrupts global oil markets and key shipping routes, the Indian government has reassured citizens that the country’s crude oil supply remains secure. By diversifying imports, increasing domestic production, and strengthening supply chains, India aims to maintain stable fuel availability and protect households from energy shortages.
