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India Defends Energy Policy: "Imports Not Dependent on External Permissions"

India has firmly stated that its energy import decisions are made based on national interest and economic pragmatism, not on permissions from other nations. The country has significantly diversified its crude oil sourcing, expanding from 27 to 40 supplier nations to reduce geopolitical vulnerability. Despite external pressures, India continues to import Russian oil, citing affordability and reliability, a practice facilitated by a recent temporary US waiver. The government emphasizes that its strategy of diversification and strategic reserves ensures energy security against global market volatility and conflicts.

Key Points: India: Energy Policy Independent, Not Based on External Permissions

  • India asserts independent energy policy
  • Diversified crude sourcing to 40 countries
  • Prioritizes competitive pricing and supply security
  • US waiver enables continued Russian oil imports
  • Strategy guards against geopolitical disruptions
2 min read

'Crude imports not reliant on external permissions': India on energy policy​

India asserts its energy imports are guided by national interest and competitive pricing, not external permissions, after US waiver on Russian crude.

"India has never depended on any country's permission to determine its energy imports. - Official"

New Delhi, March 7

After the US granted a temporary 30‑day waiver allowing continued imports of Russian crude oil, India on Saturday asserted that its energy policy is determined by national interest and economic pragmatism rather than external permissions. ​

Responding to Washington's decision, the Centre has clarified that India has never depended on any country's permission to determine its energy imports.

The Centre stressed that the guiding principle of policy remains the pursuit of competitive pricing and uninterrupted supplies, not political pressures from abroad.​

The Centre highlighted its diversification strategy, noting that India has expanded its crude sourcing base from 27 countries earlier to 40 countries now. ​

India said that this broader network has reduced vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions and insulated the economy against sudden shocks in the international oil market. ​

It said that the approach has assumed particular importance amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where instability continues to threaten global energy flows.​

Despite objections from some global actors, India has maintained imports of Russian oil, citing affordability and reliability as decisive factors. ​

The waiver granted by Washington has enabled these imports to continue without immediate risk of sanctions. ​

However, the Centre reiterated that such decisions are taken in the national interest, reflecting economic pragmatism rather than external dictates.​

The government further emphasised that India's energy supplies remain secure despite global conflicts and volatility. ​

"By diversifying sources and maintaining strategic reserves, India has positioned itself to withstand fluctuations in crude markets. The emphasis on competitive pricing and multiple supply lines," an official said, which reflected a long‑term strategy to safeguard economic stability.​

India's response to the waiver underscores its determination to pursue an independent energy policy, prioritising affordability and security while continuing to diversify crude oil sources to guard against global uncertainties.​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see the government standing firm. Diversifying to 40 countries is a smart move. We can't put all our eggs in one basket, especially with the situation in the Middle East.
R
Rohit P
While I support the independent policy, I hope this pragmatism also translates to stable petrol and diesel prices at the pump. That's the real test for the common man.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see how India navigates this. It's a delicate balance between national interest and international relations. The diversification strategy seems prudent for long-term security.
V
Vikram M
Finally, a clear statement! We are a sovereign nation. Why should we need a 'waiver' from anyone to buy oil for our people? This is about affordability and energy security, full stop.
K
Karthik V
The principle is correct, but the execution needs scrutiny. We must ensure these deals are transparent and the savings from cheaper crude actually benefit the public, not just refiners' margins.

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