Premium petrol prices in India have been increased by Rs 2 per litre, while the cost of regular petrol remains unchanged, providing partial relief to the majority of consumers.
Confirming the development, a petrol pump owner in Himachal Pradesh said: “Yes, the premium petrol prices rate has been increases, while regular fuel rates remain unchanged as of now.”
The price hike applies specifically to higher-octane fuel variants such as XP95 and other premium-grade petrol, which are typically used in high-performance and luxury vehicles that demand better engine efficiency and performance.
Oil marketing companies have implemented this increase in response to rising global crude oil prices and higher refining and distribution costs.
Premium fuels involve additional processing and additives, making them more sensitive to fluctuations in input costs compared to regular petrol.
As a result, even a small change in global energy markets can directly impact their pricing.
Since premium petrol is used by a relatively smaller segment of vehicle owners, the broader public is unlikely to feel a significant impact.
However, for users who rely on such fuels, the increase would add to their overall vehicle running expenses.
The move also reflects a broader trend of aligning domestic fuel prices with international market conditions, while trying to shield mass consumers by keeping regular petrol rates stable for the time being.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said during an inter-ministerial press briefing on Friday that petrol and diesel prices in India are deregulated and determined by oil marketing companies.
She clarified that there has been no change in the price of regular petrol, which continues to remain stable for the public. The recent hike applies only to premium fuel variants, which account for a small share—around 2–4 per cent—of total petrol consumption.
Responding to concerns about a possible increase in regular petrol and diesel prices, Sharma indicated that there is no immediate change, as pricing decisions are market-driven.
