India strengthens energy security over 11 years

New Delhi

India’s energy security has improved greatly in the past 11 years, thanks to major growth in oil and gas infrastructure, said Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for driving this progress.

The country now has 23 modern refineries with a combined capacity of 257 million metric tonnes per year, producing fuel like petrol, diesel, LPG, and jet fuel. The Piped Natural Gas (PNG) system has expanded to 733 districts, bringing green fuel to homes across India.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles is now available at over 8,000 stations nationwide. E20 ethanol-blended petrol is also being sold at all fuel outlets to promote cleaner fuels.

To support eco-friendly energy, 106 Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plants have been set up, producing 625 tonnes per day. Strategic petroleum reserves have also been built to ensure fuel supply during emergencies or price spikes.

The reserves include 2.25 million metric tonnes (MMT) capacity at Pudur, 1.33 MMT at Visakhapatnam, and 1.5 MMT at Mangalore. A new facility is also under construction at Chandikhol on the east coast.

Puri emphasized that these reserves help protect India during global uncertainties and ensure smooth supply. He also mentioned six skill development centres set up by public sector oil firms, which have trained 16,000 workers so far.

This broad development in energy infrastructure shows India’s commitment to becoming more self-sufficient and prepared for future challenges in the energy sector.