Q1. With reference to India’s LNG imports and energy security, consider the following statements:
- A decline in LNG imports from a major supplier may occur even when the country’s total LNG imports increase year-on-year.
- Diversifying LNG suppliers necessarily eliminates the risk arising from disruptions at strategic maritime chokepoints.
- LNG and LPG differ in their principal chemical composition and the methods commonly used for liquefaction and transportation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. Aggregate imports and imports from an individual supplier can move in opposite directions. In the given article, India’s LNG imports declined month-on-month but increased year-on-year, while US supplies fell sharply.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. Supplier diversification reduces concentration risk but does not necessarily eliminate chokepoint risks if alternative supplies also depend on vulnerable maritime routes.
- Statement 3 is correct. LNG primarily consists of methane and is liquefied through cryogenic cooling to about −162°C. LPG mainly contains propane and butane and can be liquefied under comparatively moderate pressure.
