Premium Petrol Prices Also Increased
Bulk Diesel Sees Sharp Jump
Live Events
Normal Petrol and Diesel Prices Remain Stable
Government Clarifies Position on Fuel Pricing
Global Oil Prices Behind the Increase
Oil Companies Absorbing Retail Price Pressure
Government Focuses on Consumer Protection
What This Means for Consumers
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The diesel price hike has come into focus after the rate of bulk diesel sold to industrial users was sharply increased by around Rs 22 per litre. This rise reflects the recent surge in global crude oil prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.However, there is relief for ordinary consumers as the prices of regular petrol and diesel at retail outlets remain unchanged.Alongside the diesel price hike, the price of premium or higher-grade petrol has been raised by Rs 2 per litre.In Delhi, the price of 95-octane premium petrol has increased from Rs 99.89 per litre to Rs 101.89. This category of fuel is typically used in high-performance vehicles that require higher octane levels for better efficiency.The most significant increase has been seen in bulk or industrial diesel prices. In Delhi, the rate has risen from Rs 87.67 per litre to Rs 109.59 per litre.Bulk diesel is mainly used by industries, transport fleets and large commercial consumers, which means the hike could indirectly impact logistics and operational costs across sectors.Despite the recent adjustments, the price of regular petrol and diesel remains unchanged.In Delhi, normal petrol continues to be priced at Rs 94.77 per litre, while diesel is steady at Rs 87.67 per litre. Officials have clarified that there is no increase affecting everyday consumers.At a recent media briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, confirmed that there has been no increase in regular fuel prices.She noted that the rise is limited to premium petrol, which accounts for only 2–4 per cent of total petrol sales in the country. This means the impact on the general public remains minimal.She also reiterated that petrol and diesel prices are deregulated, with pricing decisions taken independently by oil marketing companies.International crude oil prices have risen sharply due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Prices recently touched USD 119 per barrel before easing to around USD 108 per barrel.Concerns over supply disruptions have intensified, particularly as a large share of India’s oil imports passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption in this route can significantly affect global supply and pricing.As per a PTI report, retail fuel prices in India have remained frozen since April 2022. Oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) have been absorbing fluctuations in global crude prices.When global prices rise, these companies bear the cost, and when prices fall, they recover losses through improved margins.The government has indicated that it will continue to shield consumers from sudden fuel price increases unless there is a major spike in crude oil prices.Officials stated that ensuring energy availability at stable prices remains a priority, even during periods of global uncertainty.While the diesel price hike for bulk users and the increase in premium petrol prices may affect certain sectors, the stability in regular fuel prices offers relief to the general public.However, if global oil prices continue to remain volatile, further adjustments cannot be ruled out. For now, consumers can expect stability at fuel stations, even as global energy markets remain uncertain.Inputs from PTI