India Has Sufficient Crude Oil Reserves, No Fuel Shortage: Hardeep Singh Puri

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Thursday stated that India has sufficient crude oil reserves and there is no shortage of fuel in the country. He urged citizens not to circulate rumours or promote misleading narratives regarding the nation’s energy supply.

Addressing Parliament, the Minister said India’s energy availability is stable and well protected. He said this remains the case despite rising geopolitical tensions in several regions.

“India’s crude supply position is secure, and the secured volume exceeds what Hormuz would have delivered. Thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s outstanding diplomatic outreach and goodwill, India has secured crude volumes that exceed what the disrupted Strait of Hormuz could have delivered in the same period,” he noted.

The Minister highlighted that India has reduced dependence on a single region by expanding its energy import network.

Currently, the country sources crude oil from nearly 40 nations through multiple routes. This helps ensure a steady supply even during geopolitical disruptions.

Puri also reassured that domestic gas distribution remains stable across the country. He said the government has ensured the uninterrupted availability of compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped natural gas (PNG) for consumers.

The Minister added that the government remains committed to providing reliable and affordable energy to households nationwide. He reiterated that there is no shortage of fuel for domestic consumers.

Puri advised people not to panic or spread unverified claims about supply disruptions.

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs said India continues to extend assistance to its citizens in Iran. It is also closely monitoring developments related to shipping safety and national energy security as the conflict in West Asia continues.

Responding to questions on ship movement near the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry spokesperson said, “The External Affairs Minister and the Foreign Minister of Iran have had three conversations in recent days. In the last one, they discussed issues pertaining to the safety of shipping and India’s energy security. Beyond that, it would be premature for me to say anything.”

Also Read: India Steps Up Efforts To Help Citizens In Iran As West Asia Tensions Rise