The Government of India has directed domestic oil refiners to maximise the use of propane and butane streams for producing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), according to a Reuters report.
Under the directive, refiners have been asked to optimise the utilisation of these streams to boost LPG output and ensure adequate supply to public sector oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL).
Separately, according to a report by ANI, India is also in discussions with major oil producers and traders to secure additional supplies of crude oil and LPG. The government is reportedly engaging with global energy bodies including the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), while also negotiating with the United States to arrange insurance coverage for ships.
India has recently signed agreements with the UAE and the US to further diversify its energy supply sources.
Officials said the government is reviewing the energy situation twice daily and remains in a secure position. Current stock levels are considered comfortable, with inventories being replenished regularly.
Sources also indicated that there is currently no global shortage of LPG, LNG or crude oil, and India remains in touch with alternative suppliers.
Amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia, government sources earlier told ANI that India holds crude oil and petroleum product inventories sufficient for about eight weeks, including strategic reserves. Additionally, only around 40% of India’s crude imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, reducing the risk of major supply disruptions.
India currently holds around 25 days of crude oil inventories, along with roughly 25 days of petrol and diesel stocks. The country also continues to import Russian crude under existing contracts.
