Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks about the number of oil refineries in India. While it specifies "public sector," the options provided often relate to the total number of refineries in the country, which can lead to ambiguity.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
As of recent data, India has a total of 23 oil refineries. These include:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Refineries under Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL), etc.} \\ \bullet & \text{Refineries in Joint Ventures.} \\ \bullet & \text{Refineries in the Private Sector like those owned by Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy.} \\ \end{array}\]
The number of purely public sector refineries is 18 or 19 depending on the classification. However, 23 is the standard figure for the total number of refineries in India, and it is the most likely intended answer given the options. It is possible the question uses "public sector" in a broader sense or contains a minor inaccuracy.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Considering the standard data and the options, there are 23 oil refineries functioning in India.