Premium Petrol Price Hiked by ₹2 in India, Government Says No Impact on Common Users

Premium petrol price increased by ₹2 per litre in India, government says common users unaffected as regular fuel prices unchanged.

Mar 21, 2026 - 09:22
Premium Petrol Price Hiked by ₹2 in India, Government Says No Impact on Common Users

India has seen a selective increase in fuel prices as oil marketing companies raised the cost of premium petrol variants. According to Indian Oil Corporation, the price of premium petrol has been increased by around ₹2 per litre, while the government maintains that the move will not affect the general public.

The price revision comes amid rising global crude oil prices, which have crossed $100 per barrel due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.


Premium Petrol Prices Revised

Indian Oil confirmed that its premium petrol variant XP-95 petrol has been increased from ₹99.87 to ₹101.89 per litre.

Other oil companies like Hindustan Petroleum have also implemented similar price hikes for premium fuel.


Regular Petrol and Diesel Prices Unchanged

The government has clarified that there is no increase in the price of regular petrol and diesel.

Officials say that the revision applies only to premium fuel variants, which are used by a smaller section of consumers.


Premium Petrol Accounts for Small Share

According to Indian Oil, premium petrol makes up only about 5 percent of total petrol sales in India.

Government officials estimate that the actual daily consumption share is even lower, around 2–4 percent.

Also Read:- Why LPG Shortage Is Happening in India While Petrol and Diesel Are Still Available


Industrial Diesel Sees Sharp Increase

Apart from petrol, industrial diesel prices have also been increased significantly.

The price of industrial diesel has reportedly risen from ₹87.67 to ₹109.59 per litre, impacting sectors that depend on bulk fuel usage.


Government Assures No Impact on Common Man

Officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas have stated that the price hike will not impact the common man.

They argue that most consumers use regular petrol, which has not been affected by the latest revision.


Crude Oil Prices Continue to Rise

Global crude oil prices have been rising due to tensions in the Middle East. Brent crude is currently trading above $108 per barrel.

India’s crude oil basket, which reflects the average import cost, has reached around $117 per barrel this month.


Fiscal Pressure on Oil Companies

The price hike is being seen as an early sign of financial pressure on oil marketing companies.

Rising import costs and global instability are increasing the burden on companies that have so far kept retail fuel prices stable.


Opposition Criticises the Move

The Indian National Congress has criticised the price increase, saying it comes at a time when people are already dealing with issues like LPG shortages.

Opposition leaders argue that even selective price hikes eventually affect consumers.


Past Pricing Trends Under Scrutiny

Critics have also pointed out that fuel prices were not reduced significantly when global crude oil prices were lower in previous years.

This has led to renewed debate about fuel pricing policies in the country.


Selective Pricing Strategy Explained

Experts say that increasing prices of premium fuel allows companies to manage rising costs without directly affecting the majority of consumers.

Since premium petrol is used by a smaller segment, the impact on inflation is expected to remain limited.


Situation Linked to Global Energy Crisis

The price hike reflects broader global energy market trends, where geopolitical tensions are influencing supply chains and fuel costs.

India, as a major oil importer, remains vulnerable to such international developments.