JULY 18: Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, addressed the Plenary Session of the All India Petroleum Dealers Association (AIPDA) Conclave, urging petroleum dealers to become active participants in India’s energy transition. Highlighting the critical position they hold in the national energy ecosystem, he called for a shift in mindset—from traditional fuel retailing to embracing clean energy, digital technologies, and new business models.
Acknowledging the concerns of dealers related to commissions and operational costs, Shri Puri reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to “consultation, not confrontation.” He cited measures such as the dealer margin revision in October 2024 and intra-state freight rationalisation as examples of responsive governance. Structured feedback platforms and grievance redressal mechanisms would continue to be strengthened, he added.
Despite global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical challenges, India has emerged as a global leader in energy growth. Shri Puri shared that India currently accounts for 16% of global crude demand growth, a figure expected to rise to 25% in the next three decades.
He spotlighted major milestones in the biofuels sector, including achieving 20% ethanol blending in 2025, up from just 1.53% in 2014. This has led to ₹1.4 lakh crore in foreign exchange savings, reduced CO₂ emissions by 717 lakh metric tonnes, and benefitted farmers with direct payments of ₹1.21 lakh crore.
The Minister emphasized the importance of transforming fuel retail outlets into centres of customer excellence, offering services such as EV charging, convenience stores, fintech services, clean facilities, and robust safety protocols. He encouraged dealers to adopt automated systems, digital billing, and energy-efficient practices.
Shri Puri urged the dealer network—spanning Ladakh to Lakshadweep—to upskill their workforce and collaborate with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to align with national priorities, including disaster response and voter awareness campaigns. He particularly encouraged the monetization of outlet spaces for Non-Fuel Revenue (NFR) through battery swapping, communication hubs, and utility services.
Concluding his remarks, he encouraged dealers to move beyond retail margins and redefine themselves as key drivers in India’s journey toward energy independence and Viksit Bharat.
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