New Delhi: In light of ongoing conflicts in West Asia, the Petroleum Ministry has issued a significant statement. Amid concerns regarding a potential shortage of LPG, the central government has confirmed that the supply of gas and crude oil remains completely secure. According to officials, two LNG cargoes are en route to India and are expected to arrive shortly. The ministry emphasized that there is no need for consumers to panic and book LPG cylinders, as the normal supply cycle for domestic consumers is approximately 2.5 days.

During a press briefing on Thursday, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, assured that India's crude oil supply is secure, with oil being sourced through alternative routes outside the Hormuz Strait. She noted that government measures have led to a 25% increase in domestic LPG production.

Sharma also mentioned reports of panic buying and hoarding due to misinformation from certain areas. She reiterated that the standard supply duration for domestic LPG remains around 2.5 days, advising consumers against rushing to book cylinders. Additionally, state governments have been urged to take precautionary measures to prevent fuel hoarding and black marketing.

Describing the crude oil supply as 'secure,' Sharma stated that the country is currently receiving more oil from diverse sources than it typically would through the Hormuz Strait route under normal circumstances. India imports crude oil from approximately 40 countries, with a daily consumption of about 5.5 million barrels.

She further explained that now nearly 70% of the country's crude oil imports come from routes outside the Hormuz Strait, compared to around 55% previously. Sujata Sharma concluded by stating that two LNG vessels are currently heading to India, and their arrival in the coming days will further strengthen the country's energy supply situation.