Energy security experts confirm limited 40-day domestic fuel backup
Current liquid fuel stocks in India only provide a buffer of 20 to 40 days, according to Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) Secretary Anjan Kumar Mishra. Speaking at the Hydrocarbons Summit 2026, Mishra clarified that building a six-month reserve remains logistically unfeasible. While regional instability in West Asia creates market pressure, federal authorities maintain rigorous oversight to prevent a domestic crunch.
India remains shielded from immediate shortages by diversifying its procurement. Beyond traditional Middle Eastern suppliers, refineries now process significant volumes from Russia, Venezuela, and African nations like Angola. This shift is crucial for Odisha’s Paradip refinery, which serves as a vital hub for processing varied crude grades to ensure Eastern India's energy stability.
Domestic production increases remain a slow-moving objective despite aggressive exploration rounds. Mishra noted that while global tensions might trigger sudden price spikes, such fluctuations typically represent temporary market reactions rather than long-term shifts. Furthermore, India continues to act as a regional stabilizer, providing essential fuel support to neighbors like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh during their respective energy emergencies.
