In a world shadowed by geopolitical instability, the question of energy security looms large for import-dependent nations like India. With a growing economy and a population of 1.4 billion, India's energy demands are substantial and increasing. A disruption to the global oil supply would pose a significant challenge. So, how long could India survive if global oil supplies were to cease?

Currently, India imports approximately 85% of its crude oil. Domestic production meets only a fraction of the country's needs, highlighting a critical vulnerability. This dependence exposes India to global price volatility, geopolitical disruptions, and potential supply chain interruptions.

To mitigate these risks, India has established strategic petroleum reserves (SPRs). These reserves are designed to provide a buffer against supply disruptions. As of early February 2026, India's petroleum reserves, including caverns, refineries, and floating platforms, can last for 74 days. This falls short of the International Energy Agency's (IEA) recommendation of holding at least 90 days' worth of net oil imports. However, Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has stated that the current reserve level is adequate, while also noting that increasing it is under consideration.

India's SPRs consist of 5.33 million metric tonnes (MMT) of crude oil storage capacity in underground locations in Mangaluru, Visakhapatnam, and Padur. These facilities are strategically located on the east and west coasts for accessibility to refineries. In addition to these existing reserves, plans are underway to expand the SPR program, with new facilities planned for Chandikhole, Odisha, and Padur, Karnataka.

Beyond strategic reserves, India is actively diversifying its energy sources and import channels. This includes expanding relationships with suppliers in the Middle East, Africa, and the United States. India intends to purchase approximately $500 billion worth of US energy products and other goods over the next five years, a commitment that underpins the enhanced commercial relationship. The country is also focused on increasing domestic oil and gas exploration. The Indian government has announced plans to invest up to $100 billion in domestic exploration and increase oil refining capacity to 6 million barrels per day by 2030.

Furthermore, India is aggressively pursuing renewable energy sources to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The government is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, with a goal of 500 GW of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. As of June 2025, India had already achieved 235.7 GW from non-fossil fuel sources. India is also one of only ten countries planning to triple renewable generation capacity from 2022 levels by 2030.

While India's strategic petroleum reserves provide a crucial buffer, they are not a long-term solution to a complete cessation of global oil supply. The 74-day reserve would provide valuable time for the country to adjust, activate emergency plans, and ramp up alternative energy sources. However, sustained survival would depend on a combination of factors, including the success of energy diversification efforts, the efficiency of energy consumption, and the resilience of the Indian economy.

In conclusion, while India has taken significant steps to bolster its energy security, a complete and prolonged disruption of the global oil supply would present a formidable challenge. The nation's strategic reserves, diversification efforts, and focus on renewable energy provide a multi-pronged approach to mitigating the risks, but long-term energy independence remains a critical goal.