India's energy security now backed by strong systems, diversified oil sourcing: Former BPCL Marketing Director

New Delhi, July 1 (IANS) India's energy security has evolved into a robust and resilient system supported by diversified crude oil imports, expanded refining capacity and coordinated crisis management, former Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) Marketing Director Sukhmal Kumar Jain said.

Jain said the government has significantly strengthened the country's energy ecosystem by diversifying crude oil import sources, expanding refining capacity, developing strategic petroleum reserves and enhancing coordination among public sector oil marketing companies.

"During periods of global uncertainty and supply disruptions, continuous monitoring, alternative supply arrangements and timely decision-making ensured that the availability of petrol, diesel and LPG remained unaffected across the country," he said.

According to Jain, India maintained regular engagement with all its international energy partners to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies. He said the Ministry of External Affairs, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, shipping agencies and oil companies worked in close coordination, with the primary objective of preventing any disruption to energy supplies. As a result of this proactive diplomacy and coordinated efforts, LPG cargoes continued to reach India safely.

"We also explored LPG imports significantly from Argentina, the United States, Algeria, and Japan. As a result, consumers across the country, around 33 crore LPG households and nearly 8 crore petrol pump customers, did not face any major difficulties in supply," he said.

"The first priority was ensuring availability, which is a key factor for any commodity. The second factor is affordability. As we all know, global crude prices increased by almost 150 per cent," Jain added.