New Delhi: India will continue to buy crude oil from a broad mix of suppliers and pursue diversification to safeguard energy security, with national interest remaining the primary consideration in procurement decisions, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said here on Monday. His remarks come amid controversy surrounding Washington’s assertion that New Delhi has agreed to halt imports of Russian oil.
Addressing reporters, Misri underlined that India’s policy choices — whether at the governmental or commercial level — are driven by national priorities. “What I can firmly and confidently say is that whether it is the government or indeed our business [sector], at the end of the day, national interests will be the guiding factor for us in our choices,” he said.
He explained that India’s energy strategy is shaped by multiple considerations, including supply sufficiency, affordability, and dependability. By describing it as “a rather complex matrix of issues”, Misri’s remarks were widely interpreted as indicating that New Delhi is unlikely to abruptly sever its energy relationship with Moscow.
The statement marked India’s first clear articulation on the issue following US President Donald Trump’s decision to roll back punitive 25% tariffs on Indian exports, reportedly contingent on India discontinuing purchases of Russian crude oil.
While Misri did not directly address Trump’s executive order issued on Friday — which rescinded the tariffs but also claimed that India had already begun reducing Russian oil imports — he also refrained from commenting on Washington’s warning that the tariffs could be reinstated if such purchases resume.
Reiterating India’s broader approach, the foreign secretary said, “Our approach is to maintain multiple sources of supply and diversify them as appropriate to ensure stability. Therefore, I would say that the more diversified we are in this area, the more secure we are.”
Misri also highlighted the role of oil marketing companies in navigating market conditions, noting that they continuously evaluate supply availability, risks, and costs. He said these firms operate within established accountability frameworks and fiduciary obligations.
Emphasizing the government’s priorities, Misri added that protecting Indian consumers remains paramount, with a focus on ensuring access to sufficient energy supplies at reasonable prices through secure and reliable channels.