India was ‘never told’ not to buy Russian oil – minister India’s energy policy is driven by securing the cheapest available energy sources, with no external influence dictating its oil purchase decisions. Despite US and EU pressure and sanctions on Russian companies, India has diversified its energy imports from 41 countries. The nation’s energy strategy aims to mitigate risks from global disruptions, particularly the Middle East conflict.

• India’s Oil Minister Hardeep Puri stated that New Delhi will purchase energy wherever it is available at the cheapest price.
• He denied that India’s energy policy has been influenced by external pressure, emphasizing decisions are based on national interests and pricing.
• The US and EU have pressured India to reduce its purchases of Russian oil, with the US imposing tariffs on Indian imports last August.
• These punitive tariffs were removed earlier this year after Washington struck a trade deal with India.
• India currently imports energy from 41 countries, highlighting its diversification efforts.
• Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin noted India as a main driver of global energy demand and a significant factor in the oil market for the next decade.