No permission needed: India on Russian oil imports
India has said it does not require approval from any country to purchase crude oil from Russia, even as the United States granted a temporary 30-day waiver allowing continued imports amid tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement on Saturday, the Centre said India purchases crude oil based on competitive pricing and national interest, stressing that its energy policy remains independent.
“India has never depended on permission from any country to buy Russian oil,” the government said.
Russia continues to be India’s largest crude supplier, with imports continuing even in February 2026. Purchases rose significantly after 2022 as Russian crude became available at discounted prices following Western sanctions over the Russia-Ukraine war.
The government added that India’s energy supplies remain stable despite tensions around the Strait of Hormuz linked to the Iran-US-Israel conflict.
Officials said India has diversified its crude import network from 27 to 40 countries, ensuring multiple supply routes.
India currently holds more than 250 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products in reserves, enough to cover roughly seven to eight weeks of consumption.
The country’s 258 million metric tonnes per year refining capacity is also higher than domestic demand, strengthening energy security despite global disruptions.
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