India has enough fuel reserves, no immediate shortage despite West Asia crisis: Government

The government on May 11 sought to reassure citizens over fuel availability amid escalating tensions in West Asia, saying India has adequate reserves of petrol, diesel and cooking gas and there is no immediate cause for panic.

The clarification came as concerns grew globally over possible disruptions in crude oil supplies due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said India was fully prepared to deal with any situation arising from the crisis and stressed that the country’s energy security remained stable.

Speaking at a public event, Singh said the government was continuously monitoring developments in West Asia and coordinating with concerned ministries and agencies to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply across the country.

According to officials, India currently maintains sufficient fuel stocks and has diversified its crude oil import sources over the years to reduce dependence on any single region.

Authorities said oil marketing companies continue to have healthy inventory levels and supply chains remain operational without disruption.

The reassurance comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently appealed to citizens to use fuel carefully and avoid unnecessary consumption amid global uncertainty linked to the West Asia conflict.

The remarks had triggered political debate, with opposition parties accusing the government of creating alarm over possible shortages and rising fuel prices.

Officials, however, clarified that the government’s conservation appeal was precautionary in nature and aimed at minimising economic pressure caused by volatile global crude prices rather than indicating any immediate supply crisis.

India imports more than 80% of its crude oil requirements, making the country vulnerable to disruptions in international energy markets.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, handles a significant portion of global oil shipments and remains strategically important for India’s energy security.