Russia has indicated it is ready to support India with additional energy supplies if the escalating Gulf crisis disrupts global oil flows, according to a Russian source quoted by Reuters.
The assurance comes as tensions in West Asia continue to unsettle energy markets and raise concerns over shipments through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint that handles a significant share of global oil and gas trade.
On Tuesday, the Indian government said the country has adequate crude oil and fuel stocks to withstand any short-term disruptions. Government sources noted that India currently has enough inventories of crude and petroleum products to meet domestic demand for six to eight weeks, offering a buffer against immediate shocks.
Roughly half of India’s crude oil and LPG imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has witnessed shipping uncertainties following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and Tehran’s warnings to vessels. Insurance-related issues have also impacted tanker movement, according to PTI.
Sources said India holds about 50 days of combined stocks — including 25 days of crude oil and another 25 days of refined petroleum products. At the same time, officials are exploring alternative sourcing options for crude oil, LPG and LNG to reduce exposure to regional risks.
India’s preparedness
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said the country is well positioned to manage any short-term supply disruption arising from the evolving geopolitical situation.
India, the world’s third-largest crude importer, also ranks among the top refining hubs globally and is a major exporter of petroleum products. Officials maintain that reserves of crude, petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) remain sufficient and there is no immediate cause for concern.
In recent years, India has diversified its crude sourcing strategy, with a growing share of supplies routed through channels that bypass the Strait of Hormuz. As a precaution, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has set up a 24×7 control room to monitor fuel availability and stock levels across the country. The overall inventory position has been described as “reasonably comfortable.”
The Russia factor
Against this backdrop, the Russian offer adds another layer of assurance. PTI also reported that India could increase purchases of Russian crude to offset any shortfall from West Asian suppliers if required.
India had earlier agreed to gradually reduce Russian oil imports under a trade understanding with the United States. However, that arrangement has become uncertain after the US Supreme Court struck down former President Donald Trump’s country-based tariff framework.
Price concerns remain
While supply disruptions appear unlikely in the immediate term, officials caution that price volatility remains a concern. Brent crude has risen above $80 per barrel, roughly 10 per cent higher since the onset of the Iran crisis, potentially impacting India’s import bill and inflation trajectory.
India spent $137 billion on crude imports in FY2024-25 and $100.4 billion between April 2025 and January 2026.
Aviation sector on alert
Separately, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has asked international airport operators to share details of available aviation fuel stocks and projected requirements for the next seven days, PTI reported.
The move, taken on instructions from the civil aviation ministry, is described as a precautionary step amid the volatile situation. Operators have been asked to provide data on daily fuel consumption, replenishment schedules and current inventory levels.
India has 33 international airports, with 355 international departures and 344 arrivals recorded on March 2.
With nearly one-third of global seaborne crude and about 20 per cent of LNG shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, any prolonged disruption could have broader global implications. For now, officials say India remains in a “reasonably comfortable” position while keeping contingency plans ready.