At a time when global crude oil prices are rising, private fuel companies have started increasing petrol and diesel rates.
This has worried many people.
For example, Shell India recently raised petrol prices by ₹7.41 per liter and diesel prices by ₹25.01 per liter.
This sharp hike shows the pressure on private companies due to rising costs.
However, there is some relief.
Government companies are trying to keep prices stable for common people.
Public Sector Companies Take a Balanced Approach
Government-owned companies like Indian Oil Corporation have not increased regular fuel prices much.
They have only raised prices of premium fuels. For example:
XP100 petrol price increased by ₹11 per liter (now above ₹160)
XtraGreen diesel price raised to ₹92.99 per liter
This means that regular petrol and diesel users are still getting some protection from major price hikes.
Government Steps In to Control Prices
To reduce the burden on people, the central government took an important step last month.
It reduced excise duty on petrol by ₹3 per liter and removed it completely on diesel.
This helped oil companies manage rising global costs without passing the full burden to customers.
Because of this move, fuel prices have remained mostly stable even though companies are facing pressure on their profits.
Fuel Prices Stable Despite Global Uncertainty
On April 7, fuel prices across India remained unchanged.
This is important because global crude oil markets are still unstable, and shipping routes are facing disruptions.
Fuel prices are also being closely watched as elections approach in several states.
Overall, while private companies are increasing prices, government action and public sector companies are helping keep fuel rates under control for now.
