Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Sujata Sharma, stated that India's crude oil supply is secure, and approximately 70 percent of the country's crude imports are now coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.
Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia in New Delhi today, she said that the volume of crude oil secured by the government exceeds what would normally arrive through the Strait of Hormuz. She added that the country currently imports crude oil from 40 countries, and oil marketing companies have secured various crude cargos through different sources.
The Joint Secretary said that the country's gas companies have procured LNG cargoes from new sources. Two LNG cargoes are en route to India.
Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said that the government remains committed to the welfare of Indian nationals residing in GCC and West Asian countries. He added that all Indian missions are in regular contact with community members. Mr. Jaiswal also informed that two Indian nationals have died and one person is missing while they were on merchant vessels that were attacked. He added that a few Indians who have been injured in the GCC region are being treated, and the consulate is in contact with them.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, said that currently, 28 Indian-flag vessels, carrying 778 Indian seafarers, are operating in the Persian Gulf. He said that the government is actively monitoring all these vessels and their crews for their safety and security. Authorities, ship managers, and recruitment agencies are closely coordinating with Indian embassies and local authorities to ensure their safety and provide medical assistance. He added that overall port operations across India remain stable. Mr. Sinha said that ports have been directed to extend all necessary assistance to minimize the hardships faced by exporters and ensure the continuity of import-export trade.