India's Energy Resilience: A Decade of Strategic Progress
Officials announced on Sunday that India is now in a substantially stronger position to manage disruptions in global energy markets compared to a decade ago. While the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, India has developed the capability to reroute vessels and shift strategies toward other energy-exporting nations.
Diversification and Increased Non-Hormuz Imports
In an era of increasingly uncertain supply chains, a broader and more diverse base of energy sources and international partnerships has become a crucial safeguard for the country's energy security. Before the military conflict in West Asia began a fortnight ago, India imported 55% of its crude oil through non-Hormuz routes. Officials confirmed that this share has now risen to 70%, marking a significant strategic shift.
India has also actively tapped additional countries to source natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Cargoes arriving via non-Hormuz routes have commenced, further bolstering supply resilience. The nation imports approximately half of its natural gas requirements and about 60% of its LPG needs.
Government Initiatives Reducing Vulnerability
"By expanding domestic production, managing the transition to new energy sources, and diversifying supply sources, the Modi government has reduced the country's vulnerability to external shocks affecting its energy needs," stated an official. This multifaceted approach includes a policy of multi-alignment, enabling India to cultivate deeper relationships with multiple states to advance its national interests.
This diplomatic outreach has significantly expanded India's crude oil sourcing base from 27 countries a decade ago to more than 40 today. Another major factor in reducing vulnerability to energy imports is the 20% ethanol blending programme, which displaces an estimated 44 million barrels of crude oil annually.
Electric Vehicle Industry Growth
The government has also strongly backed the development of the electric vehicle (EV) industry. EV registrations in the 2023-24 fiscal year increased nearly tenfold compared to 2019-20. In 2025-26, EV sales reached 2.3 million units, accounting for approximately 8% of total vehicle registrations in the country.
This comprehensive strategy—encompassing supply diversification, domestic production enhancement, and promotion of alternative energy sources—positions India with greater resilience against global energy market volatility and geopolitical tensions affecting key transit routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
