Impact of Qatar Energy Facility Attacks on India's LNG Supplies

Reports emerged on March 19, 2026, highlighting that attacks on energy facilities in Qatar could have implications for India's natural gas imports. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), addressed concerns regarding the potential impact during a briefing at the National Media Centre in New Delhi.

Sharma noted that approximately 47% of India’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports are sourced from Qatar. This heavy reliance implies that disruptions to Qatar's energy infrastructure, particularly following missile strikes on Ras Laffan Industrial City, could significantly affect India's energy supply chain.

"Any impact there or anything which affects supplies in the Middle East would impact us," Sharma stated. The recent attacks, reportedly from Iran, have led to "sizeable fires and extensive further damage" to the facilities operated by QatarEnergy, the world's largest LNG producer.

Despite these threats, Sharma reassured that India has implemented measures to mitigate potential risks. "We are trying to pick up cargoes from other sources," she explained. In addition to Qatar, India is actively engaging with suppliers such as Australia and the United States to diversify its energy portfolio.

For context, India's natural gas consumption stands at 195 million metric standard cubic meters per day, with half of that produced domestically. Furthermore, approximately 60 million metric standard cubic meters per day is transported through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the vulnerability of India’s energy supply given regional tensions.

The ongoing situation in West Asia and its potential ramifications for global energy markets remain under close scrutiny as India navigates this complex landscape.

In presenting India's energy strategy, officials emphasised the importance of not only securing immediate supplies but also establishing a robust network of diverse energy sources to ensure energy security in the face of geopolitical uncertainties.