India Has 76 Days Of Fuel, No Immediate Risk Amid Global Disruptions: Hardeep Puri

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday asserted that India is well-positioned to manage potential disruptions in global energy supplies, stating that the country currently holds fuel reserves sufficient for approximately 76 to 80 days of consumption. His remarks come amid concerns over geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the possibility of disruptions to key global energy routes.

In an interview with CNN-News18, Puri said there was no immediate risk to India's energy security despite ongoing uncertainty in the region. He noted that India continues to maintain stable fuel supplies across the country while also sustaining exports. Expressing confidence in the country's preparedness, the minister said he does not expect crude oil prices to remain elevated for an extended period and believes market conditions will eventually stabilize.

Addressing concerns over a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical oil transit routes, Puri said India has adequate strategic petroleum reserves, refinery inventories and commercial stocks to withstand a temporary disruption. He stated that even if the strait remains closed for around 30 days, the country's existing reserves and contingency plans would provide a sufficient buffer.

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The minister highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to diversify energy imports beyond the Gulf region. According to Puri, India has expanded its sourcing network and is increasingly looking to alternative suppliers, while additional gas supplies from countries such as Mozambique are expected to further strengthen energy security. He also pointed to support from key partners, including the United Arab Emirates, in securing additional LPG cargoes when needed.

Puri said India's energy resilience is supported not only by strategic reserves but also by its extensive refining capacity and growing storage infrastructure. He emphasized that the country's energy security framework has evolved significantly over the years, enabling it to respond more effectively to global market volatility and supply-chain disruptions.

While expressing confidence in India's short-term preparedness, the minister cautioned that a prolonged or wider regional conflict could have broader implications for global energy markets and economic stability. Nevertheless, he maintained that India's diversified supply arrangements, fuel stocks and international partnerships place the country in a strong position to navigate near-term challenges arising from geopolitical tensions.

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