Government Unpredictable on Future Fuel Price Hikes, Denies Crude Oil Shortage

Government Remains Tight-Lipped on Future Fuel Price Revisions

Despite ruling out an immediate fuel shortage, the Petroleum Ministry has stopped short of providing clarity on future fuel price revisions, days after oil marketing companies (OMCs) raised petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre across the country.

Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Petroleum Ministry, addressed the media during an inter-ministerial daily briefing in New Delhi, stating that the government cannot predict when the next fuel price revision may take place. The ministry is facing pressure from elevated crude prices, but continues to assure the public that there is no shortage of petroleum products in the country.

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Adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, LPG, and natural gas are available across the country, according to the ministry. Sharma urged consumers to avoid panic buying and purchase fuel only as required, and encouraged citizens to adopt alternative cooking fuels such as PNG, induction, and electric cooktops.

The remarks come at a time when rising global crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions in West Asia have intensified concerns over domestic fuel prices. On Friday, state-run OMCs increased petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre across India, triggering speculation over further revisions in the coming weeks.

The government's stance on fuel price revisions remains unclear, but it has sought to calm concerns over supply disruptions. The ministry's efforts to ensure the availability and timely delivery of essential fuels continue, and citizens are advised to remain calm and make responsible fuel purchasing decisions.

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