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The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries.

GS 2
International Relations
2017
15 Marks

India's energy security represents a cornerstone of economic development, with West Asian cooperation being pivotal given the region's 40% contribution to India's crude oil imports worth $157.5 billion in FY 2024-25.

Map showing West Asia and India

Map showing West Asia and India

Hydrocarbon Cooperation with West Asian Countries

Oil Import Partnerships:

  • Saudi Arabia: Largest crude supplier providing 20% of India's total imports through long-term contracts
  • UAE: Strategic petroleum reserves cooperation and joint refinery projects worth $44 billion
  • Iraq: Second-largest supplier with 23% share, enhanced through diplomatic engagements
  • Iran: Historical energy partner with Chabahar port facilitating energy transit
  • Kuwait: Elevated to strategic partnership in 2025, focusing on energy security

LNG and Gas Cooperation:

  • Qatar: 20-year LNG agreement for 7.5 million tonnes annually signed in 2024
  • Oman: Joint ventures in LNG terminals and gas pipeline projects
  • UAE: ADNOC-IOC partnership for downstream operations and strategic reserves

Renewable Energy Transition Cooperation

  • Saudi Arabia: Joint solar and wind projects under Vision 2030 alignment
  • UAE: ADNOC-BPCL collaboration on green hydrogen production and solar power
  • Oman: Green hydrogen corridor development for export to India
  • Jordan: Solar energy cooperation through Indian technical expertise
  • Israel: Advanced renewable technology transfer and joint R&D programs

Strategic Policy Framework

  • India-GCC Strategic Partnership: Comprehensive energy dialogue platform
  • Energy Security Framework: Diversification through multiple West Asian partners
  • Investment Protection Agreements: Securing long-term energy investments
  • Technology Transfer Protocols: Knowledge sharing in clean energy sectors
  • Emergency Supply Arrangements: Crisis management and supply security

India's energy diplomacy with West Asia exemplifies strategic diversification, balancing traditional hydrocarbon dependence with future renewable energy cooperation while leveraging the International Solar Alliance and regional partnerships for sustainable energy transition.

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