New Delhi, March 11: The Centre on Wednesday directed states and Union Territories to take strict action against hoarding and black marketing of fuel, while assuring that India’s crude oil supplies remain stable despite tensions in the Middle East impacting global shipping routes.
The directive was issued during a review meeting chaired by the Union Home Secretary with Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police from across the country to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply.
Speaking at a media briefing, C. Senthil Rajan, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said states have been asked to stay vigilant and take immediate action against hoarding and black marketing activities to maintain normal supply conditions.
He added that states have also been advised to appoint official spokespersons to provide verified updates to the public and prevent rumours or misinformation.
Rajan further urged media organisations to work closely with local administrations and disseminate accurate information.
Meanwhile, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refining) at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said India’s crude oil supply remains secure even as concerns persist over potential disruptions in shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
She noted that India consumes about 5.5 million barrels of crude oil daily and has already secured supplies beyond the volumes that would normally pass through the Strait during the current period. Around 70% of crude imports are currently arriving through alternative routes, with two additional cargo shipments already en route.
Officials also reviewed the wider implications of the Middle East tensions. Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), said coordination among ministries is ongoing as the situation has also affected travel and air connectivity in the region.
