India Strengthens Energy Ties with Myanmar Through Grid Connectivity and Petroleum Supply Agreements

New Delhi Pushes Strategic Energy Cooperation Amid Myanmar’s Power Crisis​

Yangon, April 4 — India is ramping up its energy cooperation with Myanmar through plans to enhance grid connectivity and supply petroleum products, aiming to alleviate the country’s ongoing energy shortages. The announcement was made by Indian Ambassador to Myanmar, Abhay Thakur, who described the initiative as a key element in strengthening bilateral ties.

Focus on Grid Connectivity from India's Northeast​

Ambassador Thakur emphasized India’s strategic intent to connect its rapidly developing northeastern region to Myanmar’s energy grid. “Given that our Northeast is now developing rapidly with special efforts by the Government of India under the DoNER (Development of North Eastern Region) department, grid connectivity to address the energy shortage in Myanmar is an important area of collaboration,” he stated.

This initiative is poised to not only stabilize Myanmar's fragile energy infrastructure but also reduce its dependency on Chinese energy sources, offering a critical diversification path.

Fast-Tracking Petroleum Supply via Coastal Shipping​

In addition to power grid support, India is in talks to finalize a coastal shipping agreement with Myanmar. This will enable more efficient delivery of key petroleum products such as gasoline and diesel.

Ambassador Thakur pointed out India’s geographical advantage, highlighting that the east coast shipping route is at least 24 hours shorter than alternative supply lines. “This makes our petroleum products supply particularly attractive for Myanmar, and we are moving quickly to formalise this cooperation,” he noted.

Boosting Local Currencies and Renewable Collaboration​

India is also encouraging trade settlements in rupees and kyats to streamline energy transactions and reduce reliance on third-country currencies like the US dollar.

Further strengthening the bilateral energy framework, India is collaborating with Myanmar on solar energy development through the Joint Working Group on Power. India is sharing both technological know-how and best practices to help Myanmar tap into its renewable energy potential.

Humanitarian Support Post-Earthquake​

Beyond energy cooperation, India has extended a helping hand in Myanmar’s ongoing recovery efforts following a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake. The natural disaster caused significant damage to infrastructure including bridges, cultural landmarks, and government buildings across regions like Mandalay, Sagaing, and Naypyidaw.

India has pledged its support for rehabilitation and reconstruction in the aftermath, reinforcing its role as a committed partner in Myanmar’s long-term stability and growth.