India has reaffirmed its confidence in the face of potential US secondary sanctions on Russian oil imports. Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that the country is not concerned about such developments, citing India’s diversified crude sourcing strategy and stable global oil supply.
India’s Diversification Strategy
India has significantly expanded its oil import portfolio. Where it earlier sourced crude from 27 countries, it now imports from over 40. This includes traditional Middle Eastern suppliers and new markets like Brazil, Argentina, Guyana, and Canada. This diversification is seen as a buffer against geopolitical uncertainties.
The minister emphasized that even if any one supply source is disrupted, India has ample alternatives. The Indian government is also ramping up domestic exploration and production to enhance energy self-sufficiency.
Current Russian Oil Dependency
Despite global pressures, Russia remains India’s largest oil supplier, accounting for nearly 35 percent of crude imports. In the first half of 2025, India imported an average of 1.75 million barrels per day of Russian crude. Private players like Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy are leading buyers, often securing oil through term contracts.
However, the minister noted that even if Russian oil supplies face constraints, Indian refiners are well-positioned to pivot back to alternative suppliers used prior to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Stance on Sanctions
Minister Puri downplayed the threat of US secondary sanctions, implying that such measures are unlikely to impact India’s import decisions. Industry experts also back this position, suggesting that such sanctions may not be enforceable in practice or may only have limited global support.
According to policy think tanks, India’s continued purchase of Russian oil is crucial for maintaining domestic price stability and ensuring energy security, especially at a time when inflation concerns remain elevated.
Market Outlook
The global crude oil market remains well supplied. This stability is aiding countries like India to manage import prices effectively. Puri stated that if disruptions occur, they are confident of managing the supply chain without significantly affecting the Indian economy or fuel prices.
Conclusion
India’s energy strategy continues to prioritize national interest and energy security. With a robust and diversified import system and increasing domestic capabilities, the country remains confident in weathering any geopolitical shifts. The government’s measured and pragmatic approach reaffirms its commitment to affordable and uninterrupted energy access for its population.
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