PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PHDCCI) Hosts Hydrocarbons Summit 2026: Industry Leaders Deliberate on India’s Energy Security Amid Global Crisis

New Delhi, March 31, 2026: PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PHDCCI) successfully organized the Hydrocarbons Summit 2026 on 31 March 2026 at PHD House, New Delhi, bringing together senior government officials, regulators, oil & gas industry leaders, and policy experts to deliberate on India’s energy security in the backdrop of the ongoing global energy crisis. The summit witnessed participation from key stakeholders across the hydrocarbon, shipping, and energy sectors, with discussions focused on strengthening domestic energy capabilities, expanding infrastructure, and reducing import dependence.
The summit was graced by  A.K. Tiwari, Member, PNGRB, Govt of India as Chief Guest; Anjan Kumar Mishra, IOFS, Secretary, PNGRB; Ashok Kumar, Director- Chief Marketing, ONGC; Sandeep Jain, Former Executive Director, IOCL; Ajay Sardana, President, Corporate Affairs, Nayara Energy; Pawan Kumar Gupta, Managing Director, Pace Marine; Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & SG, PHDCCI and Dr. Jatinder Singh, DSG, PHDCCI among other distinguished industry experts and stakeholders.
Addressing the summit, A. K. Tiwari stated that the ongoing global energy crisis has highlighted the urgent need for India to reassess its energy policies and reduce excessive dependence on imported energy. He emphasised that the country has strong domestic potential in coal, renewable energy, and oil and gas production, but these resources must be utilised more effectively through a consistent and diversified policy approach. He also highlighted key future priorities for the sector, including expansion of the gas pipeline network, faster implementation of compressed biogas (CBG) plants, and strengthening domestic production. He added that wider adoption of gas infrastructure in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities and increased use of renewable energy will play a crucial role in strengthening India’s long-term energy security.
In his address, Anjan Kumar Mishra stated that the government has taken several swift and proactive measures in recent weeks to address the impact of the ongoing geopolitical and energy crisis. He highlighted that a number of emergency control orders were issued within a short period to ensure uninterrupted energy supply, particularly in the LPG segment, which has been significantly affected. He also emphasised that efforts are being intensified to shift from LPG to PNG in cities where pipeline infrastructure is already available. Sharing key figures, he noted that nearly 1.65 crore PNG connections have already been provided, and the government is working with state and municipal authorities to fast-track approvals and expand gas infrastructure
Ashok Kumar emphasised the urgent need to strengthen India’s domestic oil and gas production due to the country’s high import dependence. He highlighted that domestic production currently meets only around 10% of the total requirement, making India vulnerable to global disruptions. He also noted that energy demand is expected to rise significantly in the coming years and stressed the need for greater investment, technological support, and global partnerships to enhance production and strengthen long-term energy security.
Sandeep Jain noted that the current global energy environment is one of the most challenging phases in recent years and has created important strategic concerns for India. He noted that the country’s strong economic growth has led to a steady rise in energy demand, with consumption currently around 950 million tonnes of oil equivalent and expected to increase significantly by 2040 and 2047. He also highlighted India’s continued dependence on energy imports and emphasised the need to gradually diversify energy sources, strengthen strategic reserves, and expand CNG and PNG infrastructure to support long-term energy security.
In his address, Ajay Sardana noted that even amid the global energy crisis, India is moving ahead rapidly with important policy reforms. He highlighted close coordination between the government and industry, timely steps to ensure price stability, and future priorities such as expanding pipeline and PNG infrastructure, raising ethanol blending beyond 20%, and strengthening the country’s long-term energy security.
Pawan Kumar Gupta discussed how the maritime and shipping sector is actively adapting to the challenges of the global energy crisis. He noted that the industry is exploring new sourcing routes and strengthening operational efficiency despite disruptions in key energy corridors. He also emphasised the importance of expanding strategic energy reserves, including floating storage and FSRU infrastructure, to enhance India’s long-term energy security and resilience.
Speaking at the summit, Dr. Ranjeet Mehta emphasised that the discussion comes at a crucial time as India faces rising energy demand alongside global geopolitical and supply chain disruptions. He noted that nearly 85% of the country’s energy requirements are met through imports, making long-term energy security a key priority. He highlighted the government’s regular engagement with industry bodies such as PHDCCI for feedback and recommendations. He also referred to India’s target of achieving 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030, while stressing that conventional energy sources such as coal, oil, and gas will continue to play an important role in supporting economic growth and the MSME sector.
Delivering the concluding remarks and vote of thanks, Dr. Jatinder Singh expressed his sincere appreciation to the distinguished speakers, policymakers, and industry experts for their valuable insights during the summit. He especially acknowledged the contributions of all the dignitaries. He also noted that the key recommendations shared during the discussions would be compiled into a policy document and submitted to the Government of India shortly, while reaffirming PHDCCI’s commitment to supporting the country’s long-term energy security.