Prices of premium fuels sold by Indian Oil Corporation have been increased in Delhi, reflecting broader pressures in global energy markets. The price of XP100 petrol — a high-performance 100-octane fuel designed for luxury vehicles and superbikes — has been raised from Rs 149 per litre to Rs 160 per litre. Similarly, the company’s premium diesel variant, Xtra Green, is now priced at Rs 92.99 per litre, up from Rs 91.49. While the company has not officially outlined the reasons for the hike, industry observers point to volatility in global crude oil markets and rising logistical costs amid the ongoing tensions involving the United States and Iran as key factors behind the revision.
The increase in premium fuel prices comes alongside a broader uptick in energy costs. Prices of commercial LPG cylinders have risen sharply, with a 19-kg cylinder now costing Rs 2,078.50 as of April 1, up from Rs 1,768.50 on March 1. This marks multiple successive increases since the beginning of the year, indicating sustained upward pressure. Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices have also seen a steep surge, crossing the Rs 2 lakh per kilolitre mark for the first time. In Delhi, ATF rates have climbed to Rs 2,07,341.22 per kl from Rs 96,638.14 per kl earlier. This follows a 5.7 per cent increase implemented on March 1.
The sharp escalation in jet fuel prices highlights the intensity of the current global energy cycle. The previous peak was recorded in 2022, when prices rose to around Rs 1.1 lakh per kl following disruptions linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The rise in premium petrol prices follows similar moves by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, which recently increased rates of its premium fuel by Rs 2 per litre in the national capital. Despite these increases in premium segments, the government has sought to shield consumers using regular petrol and diesel. Last week, excise duty on both fuels was reduced by Rs 10 per litre, a move aimed at easing the burden on state-run oil marketing companies and preventing a spike in retail prices. The duty cut is expected to help oil companies manage mounting losses while maintaining stable prices for mass-market fuels, even as global uncertainties continue to influence the energy sector.