India fuel shortage rumours debunked: 60 days oil reserves secure
New Delhi: In the wake of rising global energy tensions and viral social media posts claiming India has only “five days of oil reserves left,” the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has firmly rejected these assertions, stressing that India’s fuel supply remains secure and uninterrupted.
Addressing widespread fears over a fuel shortage, the government clarified that the country currently maintains about 74 days of total petroleum stocks, including crude oil, refined products and strategic oil reserves, with around 60 days’ worth of fuel readily available nationwide.
Why panic buying took hold but the reality is different
Online rumours linking global geopolitical instability, especially the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to Middle East tensions, to an impending energy crisis triggered panic buying of petrol, diesel and LPG at retail outlets. However, officials say this has been driven more by misinformation than actual supply constraints.
Key points from the Ministry’s update include:
- All petroleum retail outlets across India are operating normally with adequate stocks of petrol and diesel.
- Domestic LPG production has been increased to support ongoing demand and cushion any import disruption.
- Excise duty on petrol and diesel has been cut by ₹10 per litre to ease inflationary pressure and ensure fuel affordability for drivers and transporters.
- Export levies on diesel and aviation turbine fuel have been temporarily imposed to prioritise domestic energy security.
- Critical supplies like PNG and CNG for vehicles and households are fully prioritised, while industrial supply is maintained at around 80% of average needs.
Officials also highlighted steps against hoarding and black marketing. Raids and enforcement actions are ongoing across states to check illegal stockpiling of LPG cylinders and other fuels.
Geopolitical concerns vs. domestic supply realities
India’s heavy reliance on imported energy, especially LPG and crude oil transiting through the Strait of Hormuz, is well documented amid the 2026 Iran‑US war and regional instability. That said, the government says its strategic diversification of import routes and increased refinery production ensures that fuel markets remain stable despite international disruptions.
Additionally, two LPG carriers bound for India have safely traversed the contested waterways, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain supply chains even during global conflicts.
Government advice: Avoid rumours, don’t rush to book cylinders
With daily LPG bookings having spiked due to uncertainty, authorities urged citizens to rely on verified official sources for information and avoid panic bookings that could strain distribution systems unnecessarily. Use of digital booking channels and conservation of energy are being emphasised.