Why India's Oil Import Data from Russia Remains Under Wraps: A Deep Dive

The Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) has declared that details regarding India's oil imports from Russia are confidential under the RTI Act, citing strategic and economic interests. An RTI request for data from June 2022 to June 2025 was denied, with the Central Information Commission supporting this decision. The implications of this confidentiality extend to geopolitical relations, raising questions about transparency in India's oil sector. The Commission has also called for improvements in public disclosures by the PPAC, emphasizing the need for accountability and clarity in governmental operations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 26, 2026, 16:28 IST

India's Oil Import Data: A Confidential Matter

New Delhi: The Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC), part of the Oil Ministry, has stated that information regarding oil imports from Russia to India cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to its 'commercial and confidential' nature. This stance is supported by the Central Information Commission, which emphasizes the strategic and economic implications for the nation.

The issue arose from an RTI request that sought specifics on crude oil imports from Russia to India from June 2022 to June 2025, including a breakdown by companies such as IOCL, BPCL, HPCL, ONGC Videsh, Reliance Industries, and Nayara Energy.

The Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) rejected the request, explaining that the details regarding country-wise and company-wise crude oil imports are classified and exempt from disclosure under sections 8(1)(d) and (e) of the RTI Act 2005. However, the total quantity and value of crude oil imports, both historical and current, can be accessed on the PPAC's website.

The First Appellate Authority supported this decision.

During a recent hearing, the appellant expressed frustration over the lack of information, stating a desire to understand India's operations in the oil sector.

The Commission, in its interim ruling, noted that revealing the requested information could harm the strategic and economic interests of the state and potentially impact relations with other countries, highlighting its connection to geopolitical dynamics.

It upheld the exemption under Sections 8(1)(a) and 8(1)(d) of the RTI Act, concluding that no further action was necessary.

Additionally, the Commission issued a show-cause notice to the PPAC official for failing to attend the hearing despite prior notification, questioning why a penalty under Section 20(1) of the RTI Act should not be applied.

The Commission also pointed out that the PPAC's website lacks adequate information regarding the Right to Information, directing the authority to comply with Section 4 of the RTI Act, 2005.

Exercising its authority under Section 25(5) of the RTI Act, the Commission recommended that the public authority enhance suo motu disclosures as per Section 4(1)(b).

These disclosures should include details about the organization, its functions and duties, the powers and responsibilities of officers and employees, categories of documents held, a directory of officers and employees, and the monthly remuneration for each officer and employee, along with the compensation system as per regulations.