Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has assured that oil imports into India through alternative routes are continuing smoothly as the Middle East conflict enters its second week and concerns grow over the country’s energy supply. The minister confirmed on social media platform X that the flow is “full flow from all non-Hormuz routes” and that the needs of all citizens have also been met.Speaking to reporters, he talked about the government’s strategy to manage energy availability, affordability and sustainability amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Minister Puri later shared details of the talks at X and stressed that there is no cause for concern regarding supplies. “In my excellent interaction with members of the media fraternity today, we discussed how India is tackling the trinity of energy availability, affordability and sustainability, even despite the current geopolitical challenges. “Energy imports into the country from all non-Hormuz routes are in full flow.”
Talking about the ongoing concerns over flows, the minister confirmed, “The energy needs of our citizens are being fully met. India is in a comfortable position. There is no room for concern or speculation in this regard.”Officials also indicated that India has received assurances from Qatar regarding liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies. According to government sources, the country has been informed that deliveries will begin immediately once shipping routes reopen. “Qatar has assured us that they will start supplying to India from the first minute the route opens,” sources said.Officials said India currently has adequate LNG reserves and offers continue to be received from several countries willing to supply the fuel. Officials said, “We have surplus stocks of LNG” and “we have received offers for LNG from a large number of countries.”The disruption in supplies from Qatar is largely linked to the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital sea route connecting the Persian Gulf to the open sea. The route has been significantly affected by the ongoing conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.However, officials suggested that movement of cargo ships near the strait could resume soon.“The movement of goods near the Strait of Hormuz may resume soon,” government sources said, adding that the development followed a statement by Iran indicating that it would not target neighboring countries unless attacked from their territory.Officials further said India has worked to reduce risks to its energy supply chain by diversifying import routes and reducing dependence on the volatile Strait of Hormuz.