- By Chetna Shree
- Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:50 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The ongoing conflict between Iran and the joint forces of Israel and the United States has sent shockwaves through the global energy market. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted oil supplies worldwide, raising concerns about energy security. India could feel the impact significantly, as it imports nearly 90 per cent of its crude oil. Additionally, the country imports roughly 60 per cent of its LPG and 50 per cent of its LNG requirements.
However, India has managed to shield itself from a major energy crisis due to its pre-planned strategy and 'India First' policy. While neighbouring Pakistan is reportedly grappling with a crisis-like situation, India remains in a relatively stronger position due to its underground oil storage and imports from several countries, Jagran.com reported.
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How Much Oil Reserve Does India Have?
According to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, India currently has around 25 days of crude oil reserves. Petrol and diesel stocks are also sufficient to last for approximately 25 days.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or cooking gas supplies can last for 25 to 30 days, while industrial LNG stocks are estimated to last about 10 days. The government has emphasised that, if necessary, energy supplies can be maintained through additional imports, ensuring stability despite global disruptions.
India's Strategic Underground Oil Storage
India's underground oil storage caverns are a key component of its energy security, providing a crucial buffer amid global disruptions. These caverns are strategically located at Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru, and Padur.
Developed by the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited, the storage facilities have a total capacity of around 5.33 million metric tons, or roughly 40 million barrels, which is enough to meet about 10 days of the country’s oil requirements.
A key advantage of these underground caverns is that they are relatively safe from drone or missile attacks and less affected by natural disasters. Though the government is yet to utilise these storage facilities, they could serve as a vital shield in the event of a crisis.
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India Diversifies Its Oil Import Sources
Amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, India has diversified its oil import sources. India now imports crude oil from around 40 nations across Europe, Latin America, and West Africa.
Significantly, nearly 70 per cent of India's oil imports now arrive via sea routes that do not depend on the Strait of Hormuz, up from earlier 50-55 per cent. Oil imported from Russia also plays an important role in strengthening India’s energy strategy, enhancing supply security amid global disruptions.
India has rapidly increased its purchase of Russian oil, purchasing approximately 30 million barrels. At the same time, oil supplies from African nations have also been increased. In the first ten days of March, India imported roughly 3.4 million barrels from Angola and about 1.9 million barrels from the Republic of Congo, further diversifying its energy sources.
(With Jagran.com Inputs)