Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed the All India Petroleum Dealers Association (AIPDA) Conclave, urging petroleum dealers to actively support India’s clean energy transition. The speech outlined recent energy achievements, upcoming reforms, and the evolving role of fuel dealers in ensuring sustainability.
Context and Background
- As India moves toward energy self-reliance and sustainability, petroleum dealers must modernize and align with the government’s clean energy goals.
- The government aims to make the fuel retail ecosystem tech-enabled, green, and customer-focused.
Supporting Energy Transition
- Dealers advised to use green practices and digital tools.
- Encouraged to diversify services (e.g., EV charging, fintech kiosks).
Addressing Dealer Concerns
- Revised dealer commissions and freight rationalization from Oct 2024.
- Structured channels for feedback and grievance redressal being strengthened.
Major Energy Sector Achievements
- Ethanol Blending: Reached 20% in 2025 (up from 1.53% in 2014).
- ₹1.4 lakh crore in forex saved; reduced CO₂ emissions significantly.
- ₹1.21 lakh crore transferred directly to farmers.
- CNG Stations: Increased from 738 (2014) to over 8,100.
- LPG Connections: Over 10.33 crore given under Ujjwala Yojana.
Petroleum Dealers: Crucial for Energy Access
- Serve 67 million people daily.
- Act as frontline providers during emergencies and natural disasters.
- Key to ensuring energy justice—affordability, availability, and access.
Future Roadmap for Dealers
- Upgrade fuel stations: digital billing, clean facilities, safety.
- Enable EV charging, water kiosks, and convenience stores.
- Focus on training, solar installations, and energy efficiency.
Conclusion:
Strong collaboration between the government, oil companies, and dealers is vital. The shift to cleaner energy must also ensure affordable and reliable access for all. Dealers must embrace innovation, upskilling, and sustainability for India’s energy future.
