New DelhiThe opposition is attacking the Modi government at the Center after the US announced a 30-day exemption for India to buy oil from Russia. Regarding this, the Central Government made it clear that India will buy oil from wherever it feels like in the national interest. The government said that due to the Iran-US Israel war, there is tension on the Strait of Hormuz, in such a situation, India will continue to buy crude oil from any country offering the best prices.
India’s energy supply secure: Center
The central government said, ‘Despite the increasing tension on the Strait of Hormuz, India’s energy supply is secure and stable. India has diversified its sources of crude oil from 27 to 40 countries, thereby ensuring many alternative routes of supply. In national interest, India buys oil only from where the most competitive and affordable rates are available. Due to advanced refinery capacity, it is possible to process different grades of crude oil, thereby ensuring uninterrupted supply.
India also confirmed on Saturday (7 March 2026) that it will continue to import oil from Russia even after the temporary exemption given by the US. This exemption was given due to the ongoing war in the Middle East. The Center has said that New Delhi does not need to take permission from any country for such purchases.
India does not need permission: Center
The government said, ‘India has never been dependent on the permission of any country to buy Russian oil. India will continue to import Russian oil even in February 2026 and Russia will remain India’s largest crude oil supplier. During the three years of the Russia-Ukraine war, India continued to buy Russian oil despite objections from the US and the European Union. Imports increased after 2022 due to discounted prices and refinery demand.
Trade with Russia has continued continuously: Central Government
The ongoing war in the Middle East has disrupted global energy flows and shipping routes, leading to a surge in oil prices. America on Thursday (5 February 2026) temporarily relaxed the sanctions imposed on Russia so that Russian oil loaded on ships at sea can be sold to India. Regarding this, the Central Government said, ‘Trade with Russia has been continuing. Through this exemption, an attempt is being made to ignore our trade with Russia. India is an exporter of refined products to the world and this situation does not weaken but strengthens their energy security.