LPG Cylinder Price Hiked by ₹50: Shock for Consumers

In a move that took many households by surprise, the Central Government today increased the price of domestic LPG cylinders by ₹50, making it the first such hike in over a year. The new price has been implemented effective immediately, as confirmed by Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Price Details Across Regions

For Domestic Users (14.2 kg Cylinder)

As of now, in Chennai, the price of a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder has risen from ₹818.50 to ₹868.50. This increase will affect both regular consumers and beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).

Regular customers: Now paying ₹868.50 per cylinder
Ujjwala scheme users: Cylinder price rises from ₹503 to ₹553

This ₹50 increase comes after a ₹100 price reduction in February 2024, making today’s hike a reversal after 14 months of stable rates.

Commercial Cylinder Prices Witness Drop

Interestingly, just a few days ago, on April 1, the price of commercial LPG cylinders (19 kg) was reduced by ₹41. As a result, in Chennai, a commercial cylinder now costs ₹1,965.

These cylinders are widely used by:

Street vendors
Restaurants and food stalls
Lodges and small hotels

Pattern Break in Monthly Price Revision

Typically, oil companies revise LPG prices on the 1st of every month. However, this month’s hike has come a week later, which industry experts say is an unusual deviation. The price revision comes amid a global fluctuation in crude oil prices and a reassessment of domestic subsidies.

Petrol & Diesel Excise Duty Also Increased

Adding to the financial burden, the government also announced a ₹2 hike in excise duty per litre on petrol and diesel earlier today. This hike will come into effect from April 8, 2025.

The Ministry clarified:

There will be no change in retail prices of petrol and diesel.
The tax burden will be absorbed by oil companies, not passed to consumers immediately.

However, economists warn that indirect impacts on logistics and transport could raise prices of essential goods in the near future.

Opposition Reacts: Demands Immediate Rollback

Following the announcement, opposition parties including the Indian National Congress have started raising concerns, demanding a roll-back of the LPG price hike.

In a press briefing, opposition leaders stated:

“The price hike directly hurts common families who are already dealing with inflation. We urge the government to withdraw this anti-people decision.”

Several political leaders have also taken to social media criticizing the government’s decision to increase fuel-related taxes and LPG prices simultaneously.

Background: Why the Hike Now?

Experts suggest the price hike may be linked to:

Global crude oil market instability
Reduction in domestic subsidies
Pressure to reduce fiscal deficit post general elections

According to energy analyst Dr. Karthik R.,

“This may be a step toward gradual subsidy removal under economic pressure. The government will likely monitor consumer reactions before any further changes.”

What You Can Do as a Consumer?

Tips to Manage Increased LPG Costs:

Use energy-efficient cooking stoves
Reduce flame while cooking to save gas
Plan cooking in batches
Share cylinders in joint family systems

You can also check eligibility for additional support under the Ujjwala Yojana if your household income is below the national threshold.

Conclusion

This LPG price hike marks a significant development for households across the country. While the government claims no retail hike in petrol or diesel for now, the added ₹50 increase in cooking gas and ₹2 excise hike on fuels may have cascading effects on monthly expenses. With political pressure mounting, the coming days may see more clarity on whether this hike will sustain—or be reversed.

Stay tuned for further updates.