NEW DELHI: The Ministry of External Affairs announced on Thursday that India is actively exploring options to import LPG from multiple sources to strengthen its energy supply amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
During a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government is also open to procuring LPG from Russia to ensure steady availability for domestic consumers.
“We are looking to procure LPG from all possible sources, wherever it is available. If Russia is an option, we are open to sourcing from there as well. Given the current situation, our priority is to ensure that the fuel needs of our citizens are fully met,” Jaiswal said.
The ministry also reiterated that India has received energy requests from neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
It noted that India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through multiple transport channels and continues to support the South Asian nation, along with other neighbouring countries, in meeting their energy needs.
“We have received requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and several other neighbouring countries. As mentioned earlier, India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation,” he said.
“We continue to support Bangladesh and other neighbouring nations, even as we carefully manage our own requirements, refining capacity, and diesel availability,” Jaiswal added.
Meanwhile, the government has urged consumers to use LPG responsibly and consider alternative cooking options wherever possible.
The development comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, which have disrupted global energy supply chains. Movement of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical route handling nearly one-fifth of global oil and a significant portion of LPG shipments—has been impacted.
To prevent shortages and curb malpractice, state governments have intensified enforcement measures, including raids to check hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders. At the same time, alternative fuels such as kerosene and coal are being used in sectors like hospitality and restaurants to ease pressure on LPG supplies.
