Puri Clarifies India Imports Crude from 40 Countries Including Iran

Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has clarified that India is importing crude oil from over 40 countries, including Iran. In a social media post, Mr. Puri dismissed reports suggesting payment issues with Iranian crude, calling them factually incorrect.

The minister explained that amid supply disruptions in West Asia, Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements from multiple sources, including Iran. He noted that Bills of Lading often mention tentative destinations and cargo shipments may change course due to operational or commercial reasons.

Puri highlighted India's diversified sourcing strategy, stating that oil companies have flexibility to import crude from various countries based on commercial considerations.