New Delhi, March 27 – The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that four ships carrying LPG have arrived in India after crossing the Strait of Hormuz, and assured that New Delhi is in contact with concerned countries to ensure the safe transit of its ships to meet its energy needs.
Speaking at a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India's approach to meeting its energy needs is based on the imperative to secure the needs of 1.4 billion people, the dynamics of the market, and the global situation.
When asked about the number of ships that have come from the Strait of Hormuz to India, Jaiswal said, "We have informed you about the Indian ships that have so far crossed the Strait of Hormuz. We have four ships, which were carrying LPG. They have arrived in India. They safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz a few days ago. We continue to be in contact with all concerned countries to ensure the safe transit of our ships to meet our energy requirements."
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has raised concerns about regional stability and global energy markets, particularly due to the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route.
When asked about some reports claiming that India sought clearance from the US for importing LPG or LNG from Russia, Jaiswal responded, "You are well aware of our broad approach to meeting our energy needs. It is based on our imperative to secure the needs of our people, 1.4 billion people, the dynamics of the market, and the global situation. So, these three issues are vital for us when we make decisions about sourcing, and this remains the case. As for specific issues, such as where we are buying oil from X country or Y country, I think it is better that you direct your question to the Ministry of Petroleum, as they will be in a better position to answer."
According to the government, the supply situation for petroleum and LPG is under control, and there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG anywhere in the country. Retail outlets have sufficient stocks and are dispensing fuel without interruption.
As the world's fourth largest refiner and fifth largest exporter of petroleum products, India's domestic availability is structurally assured, according to the Petroleum Ministry.
While other nations are declaring "National Energy Emergencies" or implementing rationing, India has no need for such measures.
The government has called out a "deliberately mischievous" campaign of misinformation on social media. Isolated instances of crowding at petrol pumps were driven by fabricated videos rather than actual shortages. Oil company depots have operated through the night to ensure pumps remain replenished.
Despite the situation at the Strait of Hormuz, India is receiving more crude oil from its 41-plus global suppliers than before the disruption.
High volumes from the western hemisphere have more than compensated for any gaps, and every Indian refinery is currently running at over 100 per cent utilisation.
Contrary to claims of a six-day stock, India has a total reserve capacity of 74 days, with current actual stock cover at approximately 60 days. This includes crude stocks, product stocks, and dedicated strategic storage in caverns.
Procurement of crude for the next 60 days has already been secured, according to the Petroleum Ministry.