India’s energy security strong with over 250 million barrels in reserves and diversified supply routes

India powers on with 250 million barrels and safe energy buffer. Representational Pic

Top government sources have reassured the public that India is not facing an energy crisis. Currently, we has more than 250 million barrels (around 4,000 crore litres) of crude oil and petroleum products in reserves. This provides a buffer of 7-8 weeks easily across the supply chain.

Moreover, these reserves are not stored in a single location. They are spread across underground caverns, above-ground tanks, pipelines, terminal tankage, offshore storage vessels, and three strategic petroleum reserve facilities at Mangalore, Padur, and Visakhapatnam.

Robust supplies ensure energy needs met even if Hormuz is blocked

India's stock includes crude oil, petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel (ATF), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquefied natural gas (LNG). These supplies are enough to manage short-term disruptions while imports continue through multiple global routes. Officials clarified that claims of only 25 days of reserves are incorrect.

Even if the Strait of Hormuz were completely blocked, the impact on India would be limited. About 60 percent of India's crude imports use other routes, while only 40 percent pass through Hormuz. Over the last decade, India has expanded its supplier base from 27 to 40 countries across six continents, reducing reliance on any single region.

Strong refining capacity

India's refining capacity stands at 258 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA), larger than domestic consumption of 210-230 MMTPA. Refineries can process a wide variety of crude oils, giving India flexibility in sourcing. This capability also allows India to export petroleum products globally, making it the fifth-largest exporter.

Strategic partnerships and global role

India continues to secure long-term energy deals with countries like the United States and the United Arab Emirates, and has received offers of additional gas from Australia and Canada. Even during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India consistently imported Russian oil, demonstrating independent and stable energy sourcing.

India's energy security is a result of 12 years of deliberate policy and strategic planning. With ample reserves, diverse supply routes, strong refining capacity, and global partnerships, India is well-positioned to face any short-term disruptions while continuing to meet domestic and global energy needs.

(With IANS Inputs)