Centre Statement on Oil Reserves

Amid rising tensions in West Asia and concerns over the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the Central Government has clarified the status of India’s fuel reserves. Reports suggesting that the country has fuel stocks sufficient for only 25 days have been circulating, prompting the government to issue a clarification. It stated that India currently holds about 250 million barrels of fuel reserves, including crude oil and refined petroleum products, which is roughly equivalent to 4,000 crore litres.

The government further explained that the petroleum products available within the current supply system can meet the country’s demand for nearly two months. India imports crude oil from around 40 countries, and only about 40 percent of the imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The remaining 60 percent of crude oil reaches India through other routes from countries such as Russia, West Africa, and the United States.