Government Assures Stable Fuel Supply
India’s crude oil and fuel supplies remain secure despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri told the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The minister reassured lawmakers that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), kerosene, or fuel oil in the country even as the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and their allies has raised global concerns over energy supplies.
Puri said the government is closely monitoring the situation and has taken proactive steps to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability across the country. He emphasized that India’s energy supply chains are functioning normally and that citizens do not need to panic about fuel shortages.
Diversified Imports Protect India’s Oil Supply
The minister explained that India has significantly diversified its crude oil import sources in recent years. Earlier, a large share of India’s crude shipments passed through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route that connects the Persian Gulf with global markets.
However, India has increased its crude imports from other regions, and now nearly 70% of the country’s oil supplies come from sources that do not rely on the Hormuz route. This diversification has helped reduce the risk of supply disruptions during geopolitical crises.
According to the government, the volume of crude secured by India currently exceeds what would normally arrive through the Hormuz shipping corridor, ensuring stable supplies even during the ongoing tensions.
LPG Supply Fully Protected for Households
Addressing concerns about cooking gas shortages, Puri clarified that the situation is under control and domestic LPG supplies remain protected. The government has taken several emergency measures to maintain supply levels and prevent disruptions for households.
Domestic LPG production has been increased by nearly 28% in recent days by directing refineries to operate at higher capacity and maximize output. Authorities have also prioritized LPG distribution for residential consumers and essential sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions.
Despite reports of panic buying in some regions, the minister stated that the standard delivery cycle for LPG cylinders—around 2.5 days—remains unchanged. He attributed the perception of shortages mainly to consumer anxiety rather than an actual supply crisis.
Global Energy Disruption and India’s Strategy
The ongoing Middle East conflict has caused one of the most significant disruptions in global energy markets in recent years. Rising tensions have affected shipping routes and created uncertainty about oil and gas supplies worldwide.
However, the Indian government says it has been preparing for such scenarios by building strategic reserves, diversifying suppliers, and strengthening domestic refining capacity. Officials also confirmed that petrol pumps and fuel depots across India have adequate stock to meet demand.
Authorities continue to monitor global developments closely and are coordinating with energy companies and international partners to maintain stability in India’s energy market.
Public Urged Not to Panic
Puri concluded his address by urging citizens not to panic or rush to stock fuel or LPG cylinders. He stressed that the country’s energy security remains strong and the government has sufficient measures in place to manage the current situation.
The assurance comes at a time when many countries are facing rising fuel prices and supply uncertainties due to the escalating tensions in West Asia.
