Just days before Holi, businesses and consumers have been hit with another round of price increases. From March 1, 2026, oil marketing companies have raised the price of the 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder by ₹28–31. This marks the third consecutive monthly hike in commercial cylinder rates. However, there is partial relief for households, as the price of the 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder remains unchanged.

The latest revision is expected to impact hotels, restaurants, sweet shops, and small food vendors, especially during the festive season when demand typically rises.

Commercial LPG Cylinder Prices Rise for Third Straight Month

Government-owned oil marketing companies, including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, have implemented the latest price increase.

The March hike of ₹28 follows earlier increases of ₹111 in January and ₹49 in February. In total, commercial LPG cylinder prices have risen by ₹188 over the past three months. The steady increase has raised concerns among small and medium businesses that depend heavily on commercial LPG for daily operations.

With Holi approaching, sweet makers and catering services may face higher input costs, which could potentially translate into higher prices for consumers.

Latest Commercial LPG Prices in Major Cities

After the March 1 revision, the updated rates for the 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder are as follows:

• Delhi: ₹1,768.50

• Kolkata: ₹1,875.50

• Mumbai: ₹1,720.50

• Chennai: ₹1,929.00

These revised prices are likely to affect food-related businesses the most, especially during festive demand spikes.

No Change in Domestic LPG Cylinder Rates

While commercial users face higher costs, domestic consumers have been spared this time. The price of the 14.2 kg household LPG cylinder remains unchanged.

In Delhi, the domestic LPG cylinder continues to be priced at ₹853. The last revision in domestic cylinder rates was made on April 8, 2025. For now, families preparing for Holi celebrations can breathe a sigh of relief as household cooking gas prices remain stable.

Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) Prices Also Increased

Alongside LPG, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices have also been raised. ATF is a key input cost for airlines, and any increase typically affects overall aviation expenses.

In Delhi, ATF prices have climbed to $816.91 per kiloliter. The updated international price levels in other major cities are:

• Kolkata: $855.25 per kiloliter

• Mumbai: $816.62 per kiloliter

• Chennai: $812.32 per kiloliter

In rupee terms, airlines in Delhi will now pay ₹96,638.14 for 1,000 liters of ATF. This increase may lead to upward pressure on airfares if airlines decide to pass on the higher fuel cost to passengers.

Impact on Businesses and Consumers

The back-to-back hikes in commercial LPG prices are likely to increase operating expenses for food businesses, caterers, and hospitality establishments. Since commercial cylinders are widely used in restaurants and large kitchens, cost escalation could gradually reflect in menu prices.

At the same time, the rise in ATF rates may influence airline ticket pricing in the coming weeks, depending on fuel cost absorption strategies adopted by carriers.

While domestic LPG users have been shielded for now, the broader trend of rising energy costs ahead of a major festival has sparked concerns about inflationary pressures.

The March 1 price revisions have delivered a mixed impact. Commercial LPG and aviation fuel have become more expensive, affecting businesses and potentially travel costs. However, the unchanged domestic LPG rates offer temporary relief to households preparing for Holi festivities.

As energy prices continue to fluctuate, businesses and consumers alike will be closely watching future revisions in the coming months.