According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, there is no supply gap, as crude oil imports have already been secured for the next 60 days. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have arranged supplies in advance, ensuring uninterrupted availability, as mentioned in a release by the Press Information Bureau dated March 26, 2026.
Even with concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, India continues to source crude oil from over 40 countries worldwide. Increased availability from alternative regions has compensated for any disruptions, while refineries across the country are operating at more than full capacity to maintain a steady fuel supply.
India’s total reserve capacity is estimated at 74 days, with around 60 days of stock currently available. This includes crude oil, refined petroleum products, and strategic reserves stored in underground facilities. Officials noted that even weeks into the West Asia crisis, the country continues to maintain a stable supply for its population, with additional procurement already planned.
The government has reiterated that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG across the country. Fuel stations are functioning normally, and there are no restrictions on supply. Authorities attributed any sudden rush at fuel stations to panic caused by misleading information circulating on social media, rather than an actual shortage.
Domestic LPG supply has also improved significantly, now meeting more than half of the daily demand, thereby reducing reliance on imports. At the same time, shipments from countries such as the United States, Russia, and Australia are already in transit, ensuring continued availability. Oil companies are maintaining smooth delivery of cylinders, and demand has stabilized after a brief increase.
The government also clarified that the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is part of a long-term strategy to promote cleaner and more affordable energy, and is not linked to any immediate shortage concerns. PNG connections have grown steadily and are being encouraged as a sustainable option for households.
Additionally, the ministry cautioned against the spread of misinformation online, stating that certain posts and videos are creating unnecessary panic through misleading claims about fuel shortages. Citizens have been advised to rely only on official sources for accurate information, with a warning that strict action could be taken against those spreading false rumours that may disrupt public confidence.
