Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri declares India's crude supply position secure despite Middle East tensions.
In a significant parliamentary address, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri assured the nation that India's crude supply position remains secure despite escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Minister took aim at opposition narratives, stating clearly that this is not a time for rumor mongering. He emphasized that the current volume of secured supplies exceeds what would have been delivered through the Hormuz route under normal circumstances. This declaration comes as global energy markets face unprecedented disruption.
The ongoing conflict, which began on February 28 following attacks by American and Israeli forces against Iran, has triggered a massive supply shock. The International Energy Agency, a leading authority on energy markets, warned that this is the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market, surpassing even the events of the 1970s. Total oil output from Gulf states has decreased by at least 10 million barrels per day. With no signs of de-escalation in hostilities, Iran has tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway is critical as it facilitates the transit of one-fifth of global crude. The war is actively hampering the global economy's supply of oil while weakening overall production capacity.
Minister Puri highlighted the success of diplomatic outreach in mitigating risks. Prior to this crisis, approximately 45% of India's crude imports utilized the Strait of Hormuz route. However, thanks to sustained policy efforts over successive years, structural diversification has occurred. Non-Hormuz sourcing has now risen to approximately 70% of crude imports, a significant increase from the 55% recorded before the conflict began. The country now sources from 40 countries, compared to just 27 in 2006 and 2007. Procurement has been actively diversified with cargoes secured from the United States, Canada, Norway, Algeria, and Russia. Large LNG cargoes are arriving on an almost daily basis through these alternative supply routes.
The government asserts that domestic needs are fully protected. LPG production has seen a surge of 28% in the last five days through refinery directives, with further procurement underway. The priority remains ensuring that the kitchens of India's 33 crore families, particularly the poor and underprivileged, do not face shortages. The delivery cycle for essential commodities remains unchanged. Additionally, power generation for every household is fully protected even in the event of a prolonged conflict. Refineries are operating at high capacity utilization, with several cases exceeding 100%. Consequently, there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, aviation turbine fuel, or fuel oil. The availability of these essential products is fully assured.
The Indian government has successfully navigated a complex geopolitical landscape to ensure energy security. By leveraging diplomatic channels and diversifying supply chains, the administration has insulated domestic markets from the worst effects of the global oil shock. The focus remains on maintaining stability for consumers and industry alike during this prolonged period of uncertainty.
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