India finds itself in a strategic dilemma as the ongoing conflict in West Asia chokes the critical Strait of Hormuz. With 18 Indian vessels currently stranded and foreign ships carrying crude oil and LPG unable to reach Indian shores, the government is scrambling for alternatives. While imports from the US and Russia remain an option, the massive freight costs have forced New Delhi to pivot towards West African nations like Nigeria, Algeria, and Angola for LPG.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed concern over the situation, but the Ministry is working swiftly to diversify supply chains. Despite these domestic pressures, India continues to support its neighbors. In the last 24 hours, India dispatched 7,000 tons of diesel to Bangladesh via the Friendship Pipeline, with plans to send a total of 40,000 tons this month. Additionally, a shipment of 38,000 metric tons of fuel was sent to Sri Lanka to ease its energy crisis, showcasing India’s commitment to regional stability amid global turmoil.