Top News

As the festival season approaches, households and businesses across India are closely tracking potential changes in LPG cylinder prices. Oil marketing companies are scheduled to announce their routine monthly price revision on March 1, a development that could directly affect kitchen budgets and operating costs just days before Holi celebrations begin.

While price revisions happen at the start of every month, March has historically seen notable adjustments—often upward—especially in commercial LPG rates. With no official confirmation yet about whether prices will increase, decrease, or remain unchanged, consumers are preparing for all possibilities.

Current Domestic LPG Prices in Major Indian Cities

According to the latest publicly available data from Indian Oil Corporation, the price of a standard 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder currently stands at:

• Delhi: ₹853
• Kolkata: ₹879
• Mumbai: ₹852.50
• Chennai: ₹868.50

These rates apply to household LPG cylinders used for cooking. Any revision announced on March 1 will immediately impact consumers who are planning refills around the festive period.

For many middle-class families, even a small increase in LPG prices can disrupt monthly expense planning, particularly when combined with festival-related spending.

Commercial LPG Cylinder Rates Remain Significantly Higher

Commercial LPG cylinders, typically used by restaurants, street vendors, hotels, and catering services, are priced much higher than domestic cylinders. Current commercial rates are:

• Delhi: ₹1,740.50
• Kolkata: ₹1,844.50
• Mumbai: ₹1,692
• Chennai: ₹1,899.50

Businesses are particularly sensitive to these revisions. An increase in commercial LPG prices often leads to higher food prices, as eateries pass on additional fuel costs to customers. For small business owners operating on thin margins, frequent hikes can pose serious financial strain.

What Past March Trends Reveal

Looking at data from the last five years, March has frequently brought price increases—especially for commercial LPG cylinders.

Domestic Cylinder Trends

• March 1, 2023: Domestic LPG prices were raised by ₹50. In Delhi, rates climbed to ₹1,103, with similar hikes across other major cities.
• March 22, 2022: Another ₹50 increase pushed prices to around ₹950 in Delhi and even higher in other metros.
• March 1, 2021: A ₹25 hike lifted prices beyond ₹800 in key cities.

Although not every March witnessed a change, when revisions did occur, they largely resulted in higher prices rather than reductions.

Commercial Cylinder Trends

Commercial LPG users have historically faced sharper increases in March:

• March 2023: Prices rose by over ₹100 in major cities, with Delhi recording a jump of approximately ₹105.
• March 2022: Rates were revised twice within the same month, with increases exceeding ₹100 in several cities during the first revision itself.

These substantial hikes significantly affected operating costs for hospitality businesses and food service establishments.

What Could Happen This Year?

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding the direction of the March 1 revision. LPG pricing decisions are influenced by multiple factors, including global crude oil prices, currency exchange rates, and domestic policy considerations.

Given past trends, market observers note that commercial cylinders are more prone to sharp adjustments. Domestic rates may also change, but the scale and direction remain uncertain.

With Holi just around the corner, stability in domestic LPG prices would offer relief to families managing festival expenses. On the other hand, any upward revision could add pressure to household budgets already stretched by seasonal spending.

What Consumers Should Do

Until the official announcement is made, consumers are advised to:

• Monitor updates from official oil marketing company websites
• Avoid panic booking
• Confirm revised prices before scheduling refills

Businesses, especially in the food and hospitality sector, may also consider reviewing inventory and planning procurement strategically ahead of potential revisions.

The March 1 LPG price revision will be closely watched across India. While historical patterns suggest that March often brings increases—particularly for commercial cylinders—there is no certainty until oil companies release updated figures.

Consumers and business owners alike should stay informed and rely on official sources for accurate, city-specific pricing details.

Disclaimer: LPG prices are subject to revision by oil marketing companies and may vary by location. Readers should verify current rates through authorized distributors or official company portals before booking cylinders.