New Delhi: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a nationwide advisory on Saturday, reassuring citizens that petrol and diesel remain adequately available at retail outlets across India. The statement aims to curb panic-buying and hoarding as the escalating conflict in West Asia continues to impact global energy markets. The Ministry specifically warned against storing fuel in inappropriate containers, citing significant safety risks, and instructed retail outlets to strictly follow dispensing guidelines or face disciplinary action.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat echoed these assurances, stating that India is not facing a petroleum crisis despite the “war-like conditions” in the Middle East. While acknowledging that the conflict has created emergency-like situations in neighbouring nations—including school closures in Bangladesh and severe disruptions in Pakistan—Shekhawat emphasized that India’s energy security remains robust. He attributed this stability to the government’s strategic decision to expand its crude oil import base from 27 countries to 40, effectively diversifying supply lines to mitigate regional volatility.
Addressing reports of gas supply disruptions, the Minister confirmed that protocols are in place to ensure continued availability and to prevent black marketing or hoarding. He also dismissed criticism from the Congress party, accusing the opposition of attempting to manufacture a controversy over the energy situation. The government maintains that while the Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of global concern, India’s proactive diversification and monitoring systems are sufficient to safeguard domestic requirements for the foreseeable future.
