The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) comes into force at a crucial moment for India's energy security. As tensions in the Gulf expose the risks of overdependence on the Strait of Hormuz, Oman offers India something increasingly valuable—an alternative gateway to energy supplies and trade routes. With imports from Oman surging 246.4% during recent regional disruptions, the agreement is being viewed not just as a trade pact but as a strategic hedge against future supply shocks. Can Oman help India cushion the impact of the next Gulf crisis and protect itself from fuel price volatility?