Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 8: India has begun securing additional crude oil supplies from alternative global sources as tensions involving Iran continue to raise concerns about energy flows in West Asia.
According to sources, Indian refiners are negotiating cargoes from countries including the United States, Russia and producers in West Africa to ensure steady fuel supplies if geopolitical tensions in the region persist.
The move comes amid fears that the conflict could disrupt shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime oil routes. Nearly half of India’s crude oil imports passed through the strait in February.
India currently imports around 88 percent of its crude oil requirement, making stable supply routes essential for maintaining the country’s energy security.
To prepare for potential disruptions, domestic refineries have postponed scheduled maintenance shutdowns and are maintaining regular processing levels to ensure sufficient fuel production to meet near-term demand.
Sources indicated that India has been increasing procurement from regions not dependent on the Strait of Hormuz. About 60 percent of the country’s crude imports came from outside the strait in 2025, and that share has now risen to around 70 percent following the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.
The supply situation has also been aided by a temporary waiver issued by the U.S. Treasury Department. The waiver permits the delivery of sanctioned Russian crude oil that had already been loaded onto ships before March 5. Valid until April 5, it allows such cargoes already in transit to reach their destinations without violating sanctions.
Meanwhile, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said India’s energy supply remains stable despite the geopolitical uncertainty.
Speaking to reporters, Puri said the country is effectively managing the challenge of ensuring energy availability, affordability and sustainability in the current global environment.
“Energy imports into the country are in full flow from all non-Hormuz routes. The energy requirements of our citizens are being fully met. India is in a comfortable position and there is no room for anxiety or speculation,” he said.