INTRO: India currently has a reserve for about 74 days, with an effective stock cover of nearly 60 days, which includes crude oil, refined petroleum products, and strategic storage in underground caverns.
New Delhi
The Government of India on Thursday assured citizens that the country’s petroleum and LPG supply remains stable and fully under control, urging people not to fall for misinformation being spread during the ongoing global energy crisis.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas emphasised that there is no cause for concern regarding fuel availability. In an official statement, the ministry strongly refuted claims suggesting shortages of fuel in the country, describing them as part of a deliberately mischievous and coordinated campaign of misinformation. Authorities clarified that India currently has a total reserve capacity of about 74 days, with an effective stock cover of nearly 60 days. This includes crude oil reserves, refined petroleum products, and strategic storage in underground caverns.
The government noted that the assurance comes even as the global situation remains uncertain, with the world witnessing disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. Officials highlighted that India has already secured crude oil supplies for the next two months, ensuring uninterrupted availability for citizens regardless of external developments.
All retail fuel outlets across the country have adequate supplies, the ministry stated, adding that nearly two months of steady fuel availability is assured for every citizen. It further stressed that concerns about depletion of reserves are unfounded and should be dismissed outright.
While several countries across the globe are grappling with fuel shortages, rationing, and emergency measures, India has not found it necessary to impose any such restrictions. The ministry pointed out that unlike other nations that have declared energy emergencies or implemented odd-even vehicle rules, India continues to maintain normal supply conditions.
However, the government acknowledged that isolated instances of panic buying were reported at some fuel stations. These incidents, it said, were triggered by misleading videos circulating on social media platforms. Despite the temporary surge in demand, fuel was made available to all consumers, with oil company depots operating round the clock to replenish supplies. To further stabilise distribution, oil companies have extended credit limits to petrol pump operators from one day to over three days.