India effectively addressed the energy challenges stemming from the Gulf crisis and the US-Israel strike on Iran, ensuring a steady fuel supply and shielding consumers from significant price hikes. Former ONGC Director (Exploration) Sushma Rawat commended India’s response to the geopolitical tensions in West Asia, praising the government’s ability to maintain supplies despite global energy market disruptions.
Rawat lauded the Indian government’s handling of the Gulf crisis triggered by the Iran conflict, rating its response at 8.5 to 9 out of 10 for its effective management. Despite soaring global crude oil prices, reaching nearly $120 per barrel and hovering around $116 for an extended period, India managed to limit fuel price increases to only around 2–3 percent, contrasting sharply with other nations where prices surged by up to 40 percent.
India’s progress towards energy self-reliance was highlighted by Rawat, emphasizing the country’s advancements in renewable energy and alternative fuels. She noted that India’s renewable energy capacity now accounts for 51 percent of the total installed capacity, showcasing the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy sources. Additionally, Rawat praised India’s achievement of the 20 percent ethanol blending target in petrol ahead of schedule, underscoring the country’s growing strength in the renewable energy sector.
