New Delhi is working to secure its supply of essential commodities, including fertilizers and energy, as escalating tensions in West Asia disrupt global trade routes and raise concerns about price volatility. India has termed attacks on energy infrastructure in the region as “unacceptable” and is actively diversifying its sourcing, with shipments from Russia and Jordan expected to arrive at Indian ports in the coming days. The moves approach as Iran retaliates against an Israeli attack, targeting key energy facilities in several Gulf nations, including Qatar – a major supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India.
The situation is particularly sensitive given that Qatar accounts for roughly 40% of India’s LNG needs, according to officials. The disruption has prompted India to reach out to multiple countries to ensure a stable supply of fertilizers, oil, and gas. Tenders have been issued to procure fertilizers from Russia, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, whereas India continues to purchase crude oil from Russia, a relationship that has drawn scrutiny from Western nations. The Department of Fertiliser (DoF) is likewise procuring spot gas through a competitive bidding process, with the first phase of purchases slated to arrive by Tuesday.
Diplomatic Efforts to Secure Energy Transit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has engaged in a series of diplomatic conversations with regional leaders to underscore the importance of safe passage for goods and energy. On Thursday, Modi spoke with King Abdullah II of Jordan, French President Emmanuel Macron, Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. During his call with the Sultan of Oman, Modi specifically emphasized the require for free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. “India and Oman stand for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz,” Modi stated following the conversation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also held meetings with UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to discuss the ongoing conflict and its ramifications. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that two Indian-flagged LPG ships had successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic engagement with stakeholders. Of the 22 Indian merchant vessels positioned west of the Strait, approximately half a dozen are carrying LPG.
Fertilizer Security a Priority
Alongside energy concerns, India is prioritizing the security of its fertilizer supply, particularly ahead of the kharif sowing season. The DoF issued global tenders in anticipation of potential disruptions, and officials say the response has been positive. “We expect to have the bulk of the quantities ordered from a variety of sources by the finish of March,” an MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said during a briefing on Thursday. “All our partners have assured us of uninterrupted supplies, and we hope to attain and maintain comfortable stocks of fertilisers by the time kharif demand peaks by May 15.”
Officials emphasized that India currently holds adequate fertilizer stocks, exceeding levels from the previous year. Diammonium phosphate (DAP) stocks are reportedly double those of last year, and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) reserves are also significantly higher. Domestic urea production is also expected to meet demand, particularly as the rabi season concludes. Plants have proactively scheduled maintenance to maximize output with available gas supplies.
Regional Concerns and Assistance to Neighbors
The attacks on energy infrastructure have been described by New Delhi as “deeply disturbing” and destabilizing to the global energy scenario. India has consistently called for the avoidance of targeting civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities, throughout the region. The escalating conflict has prompted requests for assistance from neighboring countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, all of whom are seeking to bolster their energy security. India is currently fulfilling its existing obligations to Bangladesh while addressing its own needs.
Jaiswal cautioned against “uninformed speculation” and urged observers to focus on factual information. “The DoF is tracking both global and domestic patterns carefully and taking requisite steps,” he stated.
NIA Investigation and Consular Access
In a separate development, the Ministry of External Affairs addressed the recent arrest of six Ukrainians and one American by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for allegedly training ethnic armed groups in Myanmar. The MEA confirmed it has received a request for consular access from the Ukrainian embassy and will address the matter in accordance with legal requirements.
The situation in West Asia remains fluid, and India is closely monitoring developments. The government’s proactive approach to diversifying energy and fertilizer sources, coupled with ongoing diplomatic efforts, aims to mitigate the impact of regional instability on the country’s economy and food security. The next key date to watch is Tuesday, when the first phase of spot gas purchases is expected to arrive, providing a clearer picture of India’s immediate energy supply outlook.
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