The Indian government has ruled out any energy shortages and affirmed that the country maintains sufficient fuel stocks despite the ongoing West Asia crisis [1].
These assurances aim to stabilize domestic markets and prevent public panic as geopolitical tensions in West Asia threaten global energy supply chains. By confirming the stability of its reserves, the government seeks to mitigate the economic impact of potential disruptions to oil and gas imports.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired an emergency preparedness meeting in New Delhi to review the situation [2]. During the proceedings, Singh said India has 60 days of crude oil and natural gas reserves [3] and 45 days of LPG stock [3].
The Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM) also addressed concerns regarding the availability of petroleum products. A spokesperson for the IGoM said, "There is no shortage of any petroleum product in the country" [1]. The government further assured that supplies of liquefied natural gas (LNG), and piped natural gas (PNG) remain adequate [4].
While the government maintains that current stocks are sufficient, it has encouraged citizens to reduce consumption. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "I urge people to use transport fuel judiciously and rely more on public transport" [5]. This call for conservation comes as oil marketing companies face mounting losses amid the regional crisis [1].
Officials said that the strategic reserves are designed to buffer the economy against the exact type of volatility currently seen in West Asia. The government continues to monitor global tensions to ensure that the flow of energy resources remains uninterrupted [2].
“"There is no shortage of any petroleum product in the country."”
India's reliance on energy imports makes it highly vulnerable to volatility in the Middle East. By publicly disclosing specific reserve timelines—60 days for crude and 45 days for LPG—the government is attempting to project strength and readiness. However, the Prime Minister's call for fuel conservation suggests that while there is no immediate shortage, the state is hedging against a prolonged conflict that could deplete these reserves faster than they can be replenished.
