India Ensures Fuel Security Amid Middle East Turmoil: Minister Hardeep Puri Reassures Public

As tensions mount in the Middle East, particularly around the strategic Strait of Hormuz, India has reaffirmed its preparedness to weather any potential disruptions in energy supplies. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has assured the nation that India holds several weeks' worth of fuel reserves and continues to receive energy shipments through diversified and secure routes. His statement comes amidst growing global concerns over geopolitical instability and its possible impact on global oil markets.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. File Image- PTI | Firstpost

A Well-Cushioned Energy Reserve System

In a public address and a series of posts on social media, Minister Puri emphasized that India has maintained substantial buffer stocks of fuel. According to him, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) like Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum possess sufficient fuel reserves to last the country for several weeks without interruption.

India's preparedness is further backed by its strategic petroleum reserves located in Visakhapatnam, Mangalore, and Padur, which collectively hold millions of metric tonnes of crude oil. A fourth facility at Chandikhol is under development, aimed at further strengthening the nation's energy security. Together with reserves maintained by state-run companies, India is currently capable of sustaining its fuel needs for approximately 70–74 days in the event of a major supply disruption.

Reduced Dependence on the Strait of Hormuz

One of the most significant developments in India’s energy strategy in recent years has been the deliberate reduction in its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. Traditionally, a large portion of India’s oil imports transited through this narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman—a region highly vulnerable to geopolitical conflict, piracy, and military escalation.

Minister Puri noted that, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has diversified its crude sources significantly. Today, a majority of India’s oil does not rely on transit through Hormuz. Crude now flows from multiple origins including Russia, the United States, Brazil, and West Africa—suppliers that route oil via alternative maritime paths such as the Suez Canal, Cape of Good Hope, and the Pacific. This shift minimizes the risk of disruption caused by tensions in the Gulf.

Russia Emerges as a Key Supplier

Among the diversified sources, Russia has taken the lead in recent months, surpassing traditional Gulf suppliers. India has increased its intake of Russian crude significantly, capitalizing on discounts and more stable shipping routes. Since Russian oil does not rely on Hormuz for transit, its role in India’s supply chain has become even more crucial in times of regional instability.

Other non-Hormuz suppliers like the U.S., Latin America, and West Africa remain vital components of India’s broader energy security strategy. While these sources might carry slightly higher costs, their reliability and distance from conflict-prone areas provide much-needed flexibility in turbulent times.

Stable Prices, Yet Global Volatility Persists

Despite the tension in the Middle East, global oil prices have not yet spiked to dangerous levels. Brent crude is currently trading at around $77 per barrel—approximately 10% higher than earlier this year, but still far below the over-$100 prices seen during the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Nevertheless, analysts warn that any prolonged blockage of Hormuz could send prices soaring toward $90 per barrel or beyond, which would have cascading effects on economies worldwide.

India has indicated it is prepared for such a scenario. If prices continue to rise, the government may reintroduce subsidies to cushion the impact on consumers. In parallel, the use of strategic reserves may be ramped up to stabilize the domestic market and keep essential services running uninterrupted.

Monitoring Geopolitics and Diplomatic Engagement

Minister Puri highlighted that the government has been closely monitoring the evolving geopolitical situation for the past two weeks. Indian authorities are in constant communication with global energy suppliers to assess risks and prepare for contingencies. Additionally, diplomatic efforts are underway to calm regional tensions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently spoke with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian to advocate for de-escalation and peaceful dialogue.

On the legislative front, India is also pushing forward with reforms aimed at enhancing domestic oil and gas exploration. These policies aim to reduce import dependency over the long term by expanding the country’s indigenous energy base.

Conclusion

India’s proactive and multi-pronged approach to energy security has placed the nation in a strong position amid growing uncertainty in the global energy landscape. With weeks of fuel in reserve, a diversified supplier base, and robust diplomatic and infrastructural strategies, India appears well-equipped to handle any immediate shocks in supply due to Middle East volatility. While challenges remain, particularly if tensions escalate further, the country's preparedness offers a crucial cushion to safeguard both economic stability and citizen welfare.

(Sources: Firstpost, NDTV, Business Standard)