Fourth Hike in Petrol and Diesel Prices in Two Weeks

25-May-2026 01:43 PM

New Delhi. Due to a surge in the international market, elevated shipping charges, and a significant weakening of the rupee's exchange rate, the import of crude oil (petroleum) into India has become more expensive; consequently, oil companies are compelled to regularly hike the prices of petrol and diesel. Over the past two weeks, prices have been raised on four separate occasions.

The latest hike was implemented on May 24, when the prices of petrol and diesel were increased by ₹2.61 to ₹2.71 per liter. State-run oil companies are passing the burden of rising international market prices onto consumers. With this latest increase, the prices of petrol and diesel have cumulatively risen by ₹7.50 per liter over the last two weeks. The series of price hikes began on May 15.

A rise in petrol and diesel prices naturally leads to increased inflation, as the transportation costs for a wide range of products and commodities inevitably rise. Freight charges will increase for essential daily-use items—ranging from rice, wheat, pulses, edible oils, and oilseeds to sugar.

The cost of transporting fruits, vegetables, and spices will also go up. Given the prevailing global scenario, the possibility of further hikes in petrol and diesel prices cannot be ruled out; therefore, a decline in inflation appears unlikely in the near future.