Stating that oil imports from Russia were necessary to stabilize energy markets and reaffirmed to protect national interests
After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the US sanctioned Russia to threaten her economically. The US encouraged her allies to stop trading with Russia. Resultantly, many western countries following US sanctions slowed down their imports from Russia. To cope up, Russia decided to provide special discounts to some countries to ensure her economic well being. India was one of them. With discounted prices, India got a chance to purchase cheap crude oil. This crude oil is not only used in its raw form but also refined to make petroleum products to export afterwards.
India’s oil import history and current scenario
Before the Russian Ukraine war, India imported oil from Middle Eastern countries like Iraq and Saudi Arabia. In the past India imported 1 percent of Russia’s oil but now Russia is the largest importer of oil to India comprising 35 percent of Indian oil imports encompassing traditional oil suppliers like Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Long term supply contracts with Russia and Indian ability to refine and export petroleum products using Russian crude oil will further benefit her.
United States tariffs on India
The US on this move of India put punitive measures against her. US president Donald Trump put 25 percent tariffs on Indian goods and later on increased the tariffs to 50 percent. Trump marked these tariffs to stop India purchasing the Russian oil and to isolate Russia globally so that she would stop her actions in Ukraine and make peace talks.
India’s reaction to US tariffs
This rigorous move of Trump made India disappointed by her closest ally. The Indian government called these tariffs unjustified and unreasonable stating that protecting national interest is very important for India. However, Russian oil imports are maintaining its energy security and fulfilling the energy needs of its people in a reasonable way. Moreover, India says that she needs stable energy markets and long term contracts to lower fuel costs domestically. The Indian government also reaffirmed that it would take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interest as it’s her sovereign right. Indian authorities also stated that US and Western countries have double standards as they are continuing importing their needs from Russia but refraining India from doing so.
Criticism on Modi Government’s diplomatic stance
The Modi government is criticized domestically as well as internationally for being diplomatically weakened especially in the face of US pressure.
Critics say that the assertive stance of Modi’s government is more for public face saving and political gains rather than gaining diplomatic success.
Analysts stated that India has weakened her diplomatic position and problematic her ties with traditional ally, the US. According to critics Modi’s moves are not potentially strong and he lost the play on the diplomatic front by worsening relations with the US.
BJP’s Hidutva ideology and national interest
The ruling party of Modi claims that it serves the national interest but in real BJP supports Hidutva ideology.
It promoted the interests of the Hindu majority leaving religious minorities deprived and helpless. So, the national interest cannot be obtained by depriving one group and benefiting the other for personal interests.
According to critics, Hindutva ideology shifts focus from broad public development to a specific group of Hindus. This raises the question whether BJP is saving the national interest or working only for specific people.
India’s decision to keep purchasing oil from Russia is to make sure it’s continuous oil supplies at low rates to ensure its domestic needs at affordable prices. While this move has sparked tensions with her traditional ally, the USA, for India saving her national interest is her utmost priority. Critics argued that it’s difficult for the Modi government to save the national interest as it’s working for a specific group. Moving forward, India needs to balance her policies to tackle her ally and the needs of her people.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are exclusively those of the author and do not reflect the official stance, policies, or perspectives of the Platform.
