India energy security: India has assured its citizens and global observers that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East does not currently threaten its energy security. Officials have cited sufficient reserves of crude oil and fuel, each lasting 25 days, to alleviate concerns over potential shortages.
Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed that India is well-prepared to handle the situation, ensuring that consumers will not face immediate shortages of petrol, diesel, or cooking gas. India, which imports over five million barrels of crude daily, relies on the Strait of Hormuz for approximately 2.5 million barrels per day. Despite recent disruptions due to Iranian military actions, the government remains confident in its reserves.
India’s energy strategy includes diversifying its sources, with over 60% of its needs coming from North America, Latin America, West Africa, and Asian Russia. This diversification reduces dependence on the Hormuz route to 40%. Additionally, India’s natural gas stocks can cover more than three weeks, with ongoing negotiations for further LNG supplies from Canada and Norway.
The government has established a 24/7 control room to monitor energy supplies and remains cautiously optimistic about mitigating any potential disruptions. India’s strategic petroleum reserves, combined with commercial stocks, provide around 100 million barrels, equating to 40-45 days of import cover.
As tensions continue, the global oil market has reacted with rising prices, with Brent crude exceeding $85 a barrel. However, India is focused on maintaining stability, and officials do not foresee a prolonged conflict affecting the country’s energy security.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 4th, 2026
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