Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri recently addressed the Lok Sabha, assuring the citizens of India that there is no fuel shortage in the country. This statement comes as a relief to the people who have been facing uncertainty and concerns about the availability of fuel in the wake of the ongoing pandemic. The Minister emphasized that the country has a diverse range of energy sources, ensuring a steady supply of fuel for its citizens.
In his address, Minister Puri highlighted the efforts of the government in diversifying India’s energy mix. He stated that the country has reduced its dependence on crude oil imports by 8% in the last six years. This has been made possible by increasing domestic production and promoting alternative sources of energy such as biofuels, electric vehicles, and renewable energy.
The Minister also reassured the Lok Sabha that the government is continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure the availability of fuel. He mentioned that there is a strategic reserve of crude oil and petroleum products, which can be utilized in case of any unforeseen circumstances. This reserve is maintained by state-owned companies like Indian Oil Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation.
Furthermore, Minister Puri highlighted the government’s efforts in promoting the use of biofuels. India is the world’s third-largest producer of ethanol, with a production capacity of 684 crore liters per annum. The government has also set a target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol and 5% blending of biodiesel in diesel by 2025. This move will not only reduce the country’s dependence on imported crude oil but also contribute to a cleaner and greener environment.
The Minister also spoke about the success of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), which has provided free LPG connections to over 8 crore households in rural areas. This initiative has not only improved the lives of rural women by providing them with a clean cooking fuel but has also reduced the country’s dependence on traditional fuels like wood and dung.
In addition to these efforts, the government has also been promoting the use of electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels. Under the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme, financial incentives are provided to buyers of electric vehicles. The government has also set a target of converting 30% of the country’s vehicle fleet to electric by 2030.
India is also making great strides in the field of renewable energy. The country has set a target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, out of which 100 GW will be from solar energy. This will not only reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels but also contribute to the global fight against climate change.
In conclusion, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri’s assurance to the Lok Sabha about the availability of fuel in the country is a testament to the government’s efforts in diversifying India’s energy mix. The country’s focus on promoting alternative sources of energy like biofuels, electric vehicles, and renewable energy is a step towards a sustainable and self-reliant future. With these initiatives in place, India is well on its way to becoming a global leader in the energy sector.
