Beyond the Strait: India Ramps Up Energy Imports from 41 Countries to Bypass Conflict Zone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that India is actively sourcing energy from alternate suppliers and closely monitoring developments in the Strait of Hormuz amid the escalating conflict in West Asia involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. In recent statements and high-level reviews, Modiji emphasized proactive measures to safeguard national energy security, ensuring minimal disruption to supplies of crude oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and other petroleum products as the war enters its fourth week.

The remarks come against the backdrop of Iran's partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint through which around 20 per cent of global oil and a substantial portion of India's energy imports transit. With very few vessels allowed passage since the conflict intensified, supplies from West Asian sources have tightened, prompting concerns over rising costs, potential shortages in cooking gas, and broader economic impacts. India, the world's third-largest oil importer and a major consumer of LPG, relies heavily on routes through the strait for about 50 per cent of its crude needs and a large share of its gas imports, primarily from Qatar and other Gulf nations.

PM Modi chaired multiple high-level meetings, including one with senior ministers on March 22, 2026, to assess the situation across petroleum, power, fertiliser, and related sectors. The discussions focused on diversifying import sources, enhancing logistics stability, and implementing mitigating strategies to protect consumers and industries. Officials highlighted efforts to tap alternative suppliers, including increased volumes from the United States and other non-Gulf regions, alongside diplomatic engagements to secure safe passage for Indian-flagged vessels and stranded seafarers. Modi reiterated that the government is working relentlessly to overcome supply chain disruptions, with a "whole of government" approach involving dedicated teams for short-, medium-, and long-term countermeasures.

Also Read: PM Modi to Review Energy Situation Amid Escalating West Asia Conflict

This stance aligns with Modi's earlier diplomatic outreach, including phone calls to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, where he condemned attacks on critical infrastructure, stressed the need for open shipping lanes, and underscored freedom of navigation. While condemning escalations that threaten regional stability, India has prioritized dialogue and avoided direct involvement in military coalitions, focusing instead on protecting its nationals and economic interests. The government has also addressed domestic concerns, dismissing panic over LPG availability and promoting awareness to curb hoarding amid volatile global prices.

The ongoing crisis has already contributed to market volatility, with crude prices surging and contributing to broader economic pressures in India. As the conflict shows no immediate resolution—exacerbated by US ultimatums and Iranian retaliatory threats—Modi's assurances reflect a balanced strategy of diversification, monitoring, and diplomacy to insulate the country from prolonged energy disruptions. Authorities continue to monitor the strait closely, with contingency plans in place to maintain stable supplies and mitigate any adverse effects on households and industries.

Also Read: Government Sources Clarify 60% of India’s Oil Imports Bypass Hormuz