Energy – India Assures Steady Fuel Supply Amid Global Market Concerns
Energy – The central government has reaffirmed that the supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG across the country remains stable, dismissing concerns about any shortages. Officials stated that fuel stations nationwide continue to operate smoothly, with sufficient stock levels ensuring uninterrupted service to consumers.
Strong Domestic Capacity Supports Supply Stability
India’s position as one of the world’s leading refining and exporting nations plays a key role in maintaining fuel security. As the fourth-largest refiner globally and a major exporter of petroleum products, the country has built a system that ensures consistent domestic availability. Authorities emphasized that, unlike some countries facing energy crises or implementing rationing measures, India does not currently face such challenges.
Misinformation Triggered Temporary Panic
The government has raised concerns about misleading information circulating on social media platforms. According to officials, certain posts and videos falsely suggested fuel shortages, leading to temporary crowding at a few petrol pumps. However, these incidents were not linked to any real supply disruption.
To counter such situations, oil companies operated their depots overnight, ensuring that retail outlets remained fully stocked and operational. Officials stressed that these proactive measures prevented any escalation of panic among the public.
Diversified Imports Cushion Global Disruptions
Despite geopolitical tensions affecting global oil routes, including developments around the Strait of Hormuz, India’s crude oil imports remain unaffected. The country sources crude from more than 41 international suppliers, allowing flexibility and resilience in procurement.
Increased imports from regions in the western hemisphere have compensated for any potential disruptions elsewhere. As a result, all refineries in India are currently functioning at more than full capacity, ensuring continuous fuel production.
Adequate Reserves and Forward Planning
Contrary to claims suggesting limited reserves, the government clarified that India has a total storage capacity equivalent to 74 days of consumption. At present, the actual stock cover stands at around 60 days, including crude oil, refined products, and strategic reserves stored in underground facilities.
Additionally, crude oil procurement for the next two months has already been secured, further strengthening supply confidence.
LPG Production and Imports Meet Demand
Domestic LPG production has seen a significant increase following regulatory measures, with output rising by 40 percent to approximately 50 thousand metric tonnes per day. This now meets more than 60 percent of the country’s daily requirement, reducing reliance on imports.
To supplement domestic production, around 800 thousand metric tonnes of LPG shipments are currently on their way from countries such as the United States, Russia, and Australia. These supplies will be distributed through 22 import terminals, reflecting a major expansion in infrastructure compared to previous years.
Distribution Systems Operating Smoothly
Oil marketing companies continue to deliver over 50 lakh LPG cylinders daily. Although there was a brief spike in demand due to panic ordering, pushing daily demand to 89 lakh cylinders, the situation has now normalized.
To prevent hoarding and black marketing, commercial LPG allocations have been capped at 50 percent. Meanwhile, measures have also been introduced to support petrol pump operators by increasing their credit limits, allowing them to maintain higher stock levels without financial strain.
Long-Term Energy Strategy Remains on Track
Officials clarified that the expansion of piped natural gas connections is part of a long-term plan aimed at promoting cleaner and more affordable energy solutions. The number of domestic PNG connections has grown significantly, and city gas distribution networks now cover more than 300 regions across the country.
Warning Against Spreading False Information
The Petroleum Ministry has issued a strong warning against the spread of false or misleading information related to essential commodities. Authorities stated that legal action will be taken against individuals or groups attempting to create panic through fabricated claims of shortages or emergency measures.