India has started exploring urgent options to secure fuel supplies as the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran enters its eleventh day. Global oil prices have climbed sharply after supply disruptions and production cuts by major exporters. The government now wants to ensure that domestic fuel availability remains stable.
A report by News18, quoting senior government sources, said the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has opened discussions with both Iran and the United States to obtain security assurances for fuel shipments.
Officials have also placed the Indian Navy on standby. The navy could escort urgent shipments of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) if necessary.
Strait of Hormuz Disruption Raises Supply Concerns
The crisis has severely affected the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important energy routes in the world.
The narrow waterway handles nearly 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. However, it has effectively shut down after US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 and Iran’s retaliatory attacks on Gulf nations.
Officials warn that if the conflict continues for a longer period, consumers and businesses could face higher fuel prices for weeks or even months. At the same time, suppliers are struggling with damaged infrastructure and disrupted logistics.
India Holds Limited Oil Reserves
Earlier assessments indicated that India has crude oil reserves sufficient for about 25 days. Because of this limited buffer, the government has begun looking for alternative sources of crude oil, LPG and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Hardeep Singh Puri said the country currently has adequate reserves to deal with the situation. The government is also focusing on urgent LNG imports from the Gulf region. Officials have asked the Indian Navy to remain ready to escort tankers carrying these supplies.
Before ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz, India wants security assurances from both Iran and the United States. Iran has earlier stated that vessels from Asian countries will not be targeted while passing through the strait.
Once these assurances are confirmed, naval escorts could help fuel shipments cross the waterway. The transit normally takes less than a day.
Government Tightens LPG Distribution
Authorities have also taken steps to control domestic fuel demand. The government has extended the waiting period for LPG cylinder bookings from 21 days to 25 days.
Sources told Asian News International that the move aims to stop panic buying and black marketing. “There were instances that people who were earlier booking LPG cylinders in 55 days have started booking cylinders in 15 days,” sources said.
At the same time, the government has instructed oil refineries to increase LPG production. Officials also directed companies to prioritise domestic consumers over commercial users. “Domestic consumers will always be a priority,” the sources said.
India Looks for New LPG Suppliers
India has also started exploring new suppliers to reduce reliance on traditional sources. Countries such as Algeria, Australia, Canada and Norway have reportedly approached India with offers to supply LPG.
Officials believe these additional options could help stabilise supply during the crisis.
Government Downplays Fuel Shortage Fears
Government sources said petrol and diesel prices are unlikely to increase sharply unless global crude oil prices rise above $130 per barrel. “We expect crude oil prices to be around $100 per barrel,” a source said. “No problem of shortage of petrol and diesel at any pump in country.”
Officials also reassured the public about aviation fuel availability. “India is a producer and exporter of ATF, no need to panic about ATF,” the sources said.
Meanwhile, authorities have accelerated plans to import crude oil through alternative routes that do not rely on the Strait of Hormuz. Officials say these steps place India in a stronger position than many other countries to manage the current energy crisis.