The Indian government is actively diversifying its energy supply sources to ensure that domestic fuel requirements are met without any shortage. On March 19, 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that India is ready to source Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from Russia if the supply is available and the deal remains commercially viable. This move comes as energy shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, face disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Why is the government looking for new LPG suppliers
The conflict in West Asia has significantly impacted major energy hubs, including Qatar, which provides nearly 40% of India’s LNG and 47% of its LPG needs. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal acknowledged that the current situation is a matter of concern for the nation’s energy security. To prevent any crisis, the government is seeking fuel from all available global sources, including Russia and the United States.
Current fuel supply and price situation
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Domestic LPG Price (Delhi) | ₹913 (Non-subsidized) |
| Ujjwala Beneficiary Price | ₹613 (Subsidized) |
| Brent Crude Price | $82-$84 per barrel |
| US LPG Contract | 2.2 million tonnes annually |
| Commercial LPG Hike | 10% increase in supply |
Measures taken to ensure energy security
The government is taking multiple steps to maintain a steady flow of fuel to Indian households. A Russian oil tanker, the Aqua Titan, chartered by Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited, is expected to arrive at New Mangalore port on March 21. Additionally, the government has increased commercial LPG supply to prevent hoarding and is utilizing a 30-day waiver from the US to purchase Russian oil stranded at sea. These actions aim to stabilize the market amidst rising global energy costs.
