India is sourcing crude oil and LPG from multiple global markets, including Russia, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday, as tensions in West Asia disrupt key shipping routes and raise concerns over energy security.
Addressing a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi is adopting a flexible procurement strategy to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies, even as volatility intensifies around critical chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz.
“We are trying to buy LPG from everywhere. The situation is such that, if needed, we will buy from Russia,” he said, underlining the government’s readiness to tap all available sources.
Reiterating India’s broader approach, Jaiswal added, “We buy oil from all parts of the world. We have many more tankers coming. We have diversified resource options in this regard. We are buying from various sources, including Russia.”
The remarks come against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia, which have begun to affect maritime traffic and triggered global supply concerns, particularly for energy-import dependent economies such as India.
Separately, the Petroleum Ministry sought to reassure consumers, stating that crude supplies remain adequate and refineries are operating at full capacity. Petrol pumps across the country are functioning normally, with no reports of shortages, while piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) supplies continue at 100 per cent.
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To manage demand, the government has asked commercial LPG users to shift to PNG wherever pipeline infrastructure exists. This is being supported through incentives and expedited connections.
Authorities have also stepped up vigilance against hoarding and black marketing. States have been directed to activate control rooms, intensify inspections, and ensure smooth distribution of fuel.
In addition, the Centre has advised states to allocate an extra 10 per cent of commercial LPG supplies to support PNG expansion and ease pressure on domestic cylinders.
Consumers have been urged to avoid panic buying, rely on official updates, and opt for home delivery of LPG cylinders.
The developments come as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz — a vital artery handling nearly a fifth of global oil and gas shipments — continue to cast a shadow over international energy markets, prompting countries to recalibrate sourcing strategies.
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