India's crude oil imports climbed to a record 4.93 million barrels per day (bpd) in June, the highest volume ever recorded for the month, as refiners maintained robust purchases despite heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia, according to data and analysis from energy intelligence firm Kpler.The surge was driven by higher imports from Russia, which strengthened its position as India's largest crude supplier. Russian crude shipments rose to around 2.6 million bpd in June, accounting for more than half of India's total crude imports, up sharply from 2.13 million bpd, or 36.5% , in May, according to Kpler data.Also Read: India plans to cut reliance on Middle East oil, tap spot market after war shockRussia has remained India's biggest crude supplier since 2022-23, after Indian refiners ramped up purchases of discounted Russian oil following the withdrawal of many European buyers in the wake of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.The record import volumes highlight India's ability to secure crude supplies through diversified sourcing strategies even as the conflict in West Asia disrupted global energy markets and briefly pushed up oil prices."India's crude imports have quietly demonstrated remarkable resilience over the past 100 days. Over the past 100 days, India has arguably been one of the best-positioned major importers, successfully maintaining crude inflows through proactive diversification and procurement strategies," Kpler analyst Sumit Ritolia said.He added: "India imported 4.93 million bpd of crude in June, the highest June volume on record, despite heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. At the same time, Russian crude imports climbed to around 2.6 million bpd, reaffirming Russia's position as India's largest and most important crude supplier."According to Ritolia, the ability to sustain record import volumes while increasing purchases from Russia reflects the success of Indian refiners in diversifying supply sources and optimising refinery economics.Also Read: India plans to add strategic fuel reserves after Iran war shockHe said Indian refiners have already secured crude cargoes for the first half of August, with purchases typically made one to two months in advance, limiting the need for immediate spot buying even if geopolitical risks persist.Looking ahead, Ritolia expects global crude supplies to remain adequate, supported by higher exports from Africa, Russia and Venezuela, increased production from OPEC+ members and the continued movement of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. The recent decline in international crude prices, he said, indicates that markets have become less concerned about near-term supply disruptions.On the prospects of Iranian crude returning to India, Ritolia said he does not expect a meaningful resumption in the near term.While one or two opportunistic cargoes could arrive in July or August, refiners have largely met their feedstock requirements through early August, he said. Any sustained return of Iranian crude would depend on the regulatory framework after the current sanctions waiver expires on August 21.India, the world's third-largest importer and consumer of crude oil, meets more than 88% of its oil requirements through imports and has significantly increased purchases of discounted Russian crude since 2022."Looking ahead, India's crude import position also appears comfortable. Refiners typically procure crude cargoes one to two months in advance, implying that feedstock requirements through August are largely secured. Beyond that, the global supply outlook remains supportive," Ritolia said."Overall, India's crude import portfolio remains well diversified, well balanced, and adequately covered. Unless there is a material disruption to global physical supplies, Indian refiners are well positioned to meet crude requirements while continuing to optimise procurement economics," he added.