The Centre on Thursday, March 26 clarified that India currently holds sufficient fuel reserves to meet demand for nearly two months. Dismissing reports of shortages as misleading, the government said there is no disruption in the availability of petrol, diesel or LPG across the country.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas termed such claims a ‘deliberate attempt to spread panic,’ urging citizens not to fall for unverified information circulating on social media. It emphasised that fuel stations nationwide are fully stocked and operating smoothly, with no restrictions on supply.
The ministry while highlighting India’s strong position in the global energy landscape, noted that India is one of the world’s leading refiners and exporters of petroleum products. It added that domestic fuel supply remains stable and well-managed, supported by strong infrastructure and planning.
As per the official statement, Indian refineries are now operating at more than full capacity, while ensuring steady production of key fuels like petrol and diesel. Additionally, oil companies have already secured crude supplies for the coming 60 days, eliminating any immediate concerns over supply gaps, according to news agency PTI.
The government ended up explaining that India’s total fuel and crude storage capacity stands at approximately 74 days. At present, the country has an effective stock cover of around 60 days, which includes crude oil reserves, refined fuel stocks and strategic reserves stored in underground facilities.
This assurance comes even as geopolitical tensions continue in the Middle East. The ministry also mentioned that despite having major concerns around key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, India has been able to manage the maintenance of stable crude inflows by diversifying sourcing and increasing imports from alternative suppliers.
Officials also stressed that LPG availability remains comfortable. Domestic production has been ramped up, reducing dependence on imports, while additional shipments from multiple countries have been secured to ensure uninterrupted supply.
Reiterating its stance, the government said there is no basis to claims suggesting that India’s fuel reserves are depleting or inadequate. It warned that strict action will be taken against those spreading false information aimed at creating unnecessary fear among the public.
With procurement for the next two months already in place, authorities maintained that India’s fuel supply chain remains resilient and capable of handling any external disruptions.
