India directs states to curb fuel hoarding and black marketing as government assures secure crude oil supply despite Middle East tensions. Officials confirm alternative shipping routes, stable imports, and strengthened fuel supply chains to prevent disruptions nationwide.
The Government of India has directed all states and Union Territories to take strict action against fuel hoarding and black marketing, while assuring citizens that the country’s crude oil supply remains secure despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East affecting key global shipping routes.
The directive was issued during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan on Wednesday. The meeting brought together Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police from all states and Union Territories to assess the national fuel supply situation and ensure that the distribution network remains uninterrupted across the country.
Officials emphasised the need for immediate vigilance and enforcement measures to prevent panic buying, hoarding, or illegal profiteering in fuel markets. The Centre made it clear that strict action must be taken against any individual or entity attempting to exploit the situation.
Addressing a media briefing following the meeting, Joint Secretary C. Senthil Rajan said that state governments have been instructed to remain alert and act decisively against any attempt to disrupt the normal fuel supply chain.
“The meeting emphasised that state governments must act strictly against hoarding and black marketing. Authorities have been asked to ensure that the fuel supply chain functions smoothly and that the public does not face any disruption,” Rajan said.
To maintain transparency and prevent misinformation, the Centre has also directed each state and Union Territory to appoint a designated official spokesperson. These spokespersons will provide verified and regular updates regarding fuel availability and supply conditions.
According to Rajan, timely and accurate communication will play a critical role in preventing unnecessary panic among citizens.
“Each state has been asked to appoint an official spokesperson who will communicate verified information to the public. This will help prevent confusion, rumours, and unnecessary panic buying,” he added.
The government also urged media organisations to cooperate with authorities by disseminating accurate information and avoiding speculation that could create public anxiety.
“Media outlets should work in partnership with local administrations and highlight verified information coming from the ground,” Rajan noted, stressing the importance of responsible reporting during sensitive periods.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas reassured the nation that India’s crude oil supply remains stable despite global concerns over possible disruptions in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refining) Sujata Sharma explained that India consumes approximately 5.5 million barrels of crude oil daily. However, the country has already secured adequate supplies that exceed the volumes typically transported through the Strait during the current period.
Sharma said that India has diversified its crude oil import routes to reduce dependence on any single maritime passage. As a result, about 70 percent of the country’s crude imports are currently arriving through alternative shipping routes, ensuring continuity in supply even if certain global transit points face disruptions.
“Two additional cargo shipments are already on their way to further strengthen the country’s crude supply,” Sharma confirmed, adding that the government is closely monitoring the evolving international situation.
The review meeting also examined the broader geopolitical impact of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have affected regional travel and air connectivity.
Providing an update on diplomatic coordination, Additional Secretary (Gulf) at the Ministry of External Affairs Aseem R. Mahajan said multiple ministries are working in close coordination to monitor developments and manage any potential fallout.
Mahajan noted that the conflict has already impacted international travel routes and airline operations in parts of the Gulf region, prompting Indian authorities to remain on alert.
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Officials emphasised that while the global situation remains volatile, India has taken proactive steps to ensure energy security and maintain uninterrupted fuel availability for citizens.
The Centre’s latest directive highlights the government’s focus on preventing artificial shortages, maintaining public confidence, and ensuring that fuel distribution continues smoothly across the country even amid international uncertainties.
