Breaking: India Secures 60-Day Oil Supply Amid Middle East Disruptions
reuters
New Delhi, March 26 (Thetrendingpeople): India has secured crude oil supplies for the next 60 days, ensuring fuel stability despite disruptions in shipments from the Middle East caused by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, the government confirmed on Thursday.
The disruption follows escalating tensions in West Asia, particularly around the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes. India, which previously sourced over 40% of its crude imports from the region, began diversifying supplies as the conflict intensified in recent weeks.
Government Statement and Supply Status
According to the oil ministry, India currently has sufficient crude and fuel stocks to meet 60 days of demand, against a storage capacity of 74 days. Officials stated that crude inflows from over 41 global suppliers are compensating for reduced Middle East shipments.
Taking advantage of a temporary U.S. waiver, Indian refiners have significantly increased imports from Russia, alongside sourcing crude from the Western hemisphere.
LPG Supply Measures
The government has also ramped up domestic liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) production by 40% to 50,000 metric tons per day. Additionally, India has secured 800,000 tons of LPG imports from countries including the United States, Russia, and Australia, ensuring at least one month of stable supply through its 22 import terminals.
India has previously faced similar supply concerns during geopolitical crises, including tensions in the Gulf region and disruptions during the 1990 Gulf War. The Strait of Hormuz has historically remained a critical vulnerability for global energy markets, carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil trade.
National Impact
As the world’s third-largest oil consumer, India’s proactive procurement strategy aims to shield domestic fuel availability and prices from global volatility. Officials emphasized that petrol and diesel supplies remain structurally secure, with India continuing as a net exporter of refined petroleum products.
Our Final Thoughts
India’s swift diversification of crude sourcing highlights a strategic shift toward energy security in times of global uncertainty. While immediate supply concerns appear contained, prolonged instability in West Asia could continue to test global energy resilience and pricing