Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday alleviated concerns regarding energy supplies across the country, affirming that fuel and cooking gas supplies remain stable. Addressing the CII Annual Business Summit, Puri stated that India currently holds crude oil and LNG reserves sufficient for 69 days, while LPG stocks can last 45 days, dismissing any fears of immediate supply disruption.
No Supply Issue, Says Minister
“There is no supply issue; we have 69 days of crude oil and LNG stock and 45 days of LPG stock,” Puri declared. To further secure cooking gas availability, the government has significantly ramped up LPG production, increasing daily output from 35,000–36,000 tonnes to 54,000 tonnes in response to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Production Boost Amid West Asia Conflict
“LPG production has been ramped up from 35,000–36,000 tonnes per day to 54,000 tonnes amid the West Asia conflict,” the minister explained. He added that the government has managed the crisis responsibly so far, ensuring uninterrupted availability across the country. “We managed the crisis with responsibility; there have been no dryouts anywhere,” Puri emphasized.
Austerity Appeal by PM Modi
Puri also reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call for austerity in light of broader economic pressures created by the conflict. He stated that the appeal should prompt citizens and policymakers alike to consider ways to reduce the financial burden. “PM Narendra Modi's austerity appeal is a wake-up call to start thinking of measures to lessen fiscal strain from the West Asia conflict,” Puri said.
Steps to Conserve Foreign Exchange
Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi outlined several steps aimed at conserving foreign exchange and reducing economic strain. These include cutting petrol and diesel use, opting for metro travel in cities, carpooling, increasing the use of electric vehicles, shifting parcel transport to railways, and working from home where possible. He also urged people to delay gold purchases and foreign travel for a year as part of wider efforts to protect the economy during the Middle East crisis.
The government’s proactive measures and the minister’s reassurances underscore India’s commitment to maintaining energy security and economic stability amid global uncertainties.
