India sharply increased its imports of Russian crude oil in March as tensions in West Asia disrupted supplies from the Middle East. The move reflects how the country is adjusting quickly to maintain a steady flow of energy.
The rise has been significant as India’s purchases of Russian oil jumped by nearly 90% compared to February, even as overall crude imports dropped. This shift came as shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil routes, were affected by ongoing conflict in the region.
For India, which depends heavily on imported oil, any disruption in the Middle East can have a direct impact. Countries like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are usually key suppliers. However, in March, deliveries from these nations slowed as tanker movements became riskier due to rising tensions.
To manage the situation, Indian refineries turned to Russia, which continues to offer stable supplies, often at discounted prices. This helped India avoid shortages and keep fuel supply steady across the country.
Experts say this shift highlights India’s flexible approach to energy security. By sourcing oil from multiple countries, India is trying to reduce its dependence on any one region. In recent years, it has expanded its supplier base to include over 40 countries.
However, the situation remains uncertain. Continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz could affect global oil prices and supply chains in the coming weeks. Any further disruption may increase fuel costs and put pressure on economies worldwide.
Also Read: Iran warns of Gulf bridge attacks after US strike
