In a festive announcement this Diwali, the central government has shared good news for fuel consumers: petrol and diesel prices are set to decrease across the country. According to Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, petrol will be reduced by ₹5 per liter and diesel by ₹2 per liter. This price reduction comes after months without a change and is aimed at easing the burden on consumers.
Earlier in March, the government had decreased fuel prices by ₹2, but there had been no further cuts since then. In his Diwali message on social media, Puri stated that oil-producing companies have agreed to increase dealer commissions for petrol pump operators, which had been a demand for over seven years. This decision, he explained, will benefit both operators and customers by offering better service and maintaining stable fuel prices.
Price Cuts Expected After Upcoming Elections
Minister Puri mentioned that the new rates are expected to take effect in states following the upcoming elections. In support of the decision, he highlighted a few examples: in the districts of Malkangiri in Odisha, petrol prices in villages such as Kunanpalli and Kalimela have already dropped by ₹4.69 and ₹4.55, respectively. Diesel prices in these areas have also been reduced by ₹4.45 and ₹4.32. Similarly, in Sukma, Chhattisgarh, petrol prices will reduce by ₹2.09 and diesel by ₹2.02.
Millions to Benefit from Increased Dealer Commissions
With the increase in dealer commissions, over 7 crore customers and employees of more than 83,000 petrol pumps across India stand to benefit. Around 1 million petrol pump workers are also expected to experience positive changes due to this policy. The government has also introduced an interstate freight service to facilitate the transport of oil to remote areas, ultimately supporting lower prices nationwide. This service will further help stabilize prices across states and make petrol and diesel more affordable.
This fuel price reduction is expected to bring relief to consumers during the Diwali festivities, alleviating transportation costs and supporting rural communities that are farther from major distribution depots. The government’s steps indicate a broader strategy to enhance access to affordable fuel while ensuring efficient services for all citizens.