West Asia Crisis: 'If LPG is available in Russia, it will be purchased from there as well' — India expresses deep concern.

In light of the growing impact on energy supplies caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, India stated on Thursday that it is diversifying its sources of supply to meet the fuel-related needs of its people.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is seeking to procure LPG from all possible sources, and if LPG becomes available from Russia, it will be purchased from there as well.

He emphasized that India requires a wider range of options and is currently purchasing oil from various sources, including Russia. He added, "We are attempting to procure LPG from every possible source—wherever it is available."

"Therefore, if LPG is available in Russia, we will purchase it from there as well. This is because the prevailing circumstances necessitate that we fulfill the fuel requirements of our people."

India has described the attacks on oil and gas wells, as well as oil refineries, in the Gulf region as "extremely concerning." The government has asserted that such acts are unacceptable and that the attacks must cease immediately.

Responding to media queries on Thursday regarding the attacks on energy infrastructure in the Gulf region over the past few days, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that, right from the onset of the conflict, India had maintained that civilian and energy targets must not be targeted.

Indian Nationals Returning via Armenia and Azerbaijan

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that approximately 882 Indian nationals stranded in Iran are currently making their way back home via Azerbaijan and Armenia. This group includes students, business professionals, and pilgrims. Many individuals have already arrived.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that a number of individuals had not registered themselves with the Embassy. Consequently, the initial estimate suggested a total of 9,000 people. Of this number, a significant number of students had already returned prior to the outbreak of hostilities.

He further added that, out of the 284 pilgrims traveling in the region, 280 have already returned; they traveled back via Armenia. Three or four individuals remain, and they are also expected to arrive within the next day or two.