Centre hikes petrol, diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre each amid West Asia conflict

India faces its first fuel price hike in over four years, with petrol and diesel jumping by Rs 3 per litre.

This surge follows the conclusion of major assembly elections and reflects the growing financial strain on state-run oil firms. Global crude prices have skyrocketed, crossing 120 per barrel due to the US-Israel-Iran conflict and the subsequent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz (Anghelescu, 2026).

With oil companies reportedly losing Rs. 1,000 crore daily, this revision marks the end of a long price freeze. For consumers, this signifies rising transport costs and imminent inflationary pressure across essential goods.

X
The New Indian Express
www.newindianexpress.com