Cooking Gas Gets Costlier as LPG Prices Rise

Cooking gas has become more expensive in India after oil marketing companies increased the price of domestic LPG cylinders by ₹60. The new prices came into effect from March 7, 2026, impacting household budgets across the country. At the same time, commercial LPG cylinder prices have also been increased, which may raise operating costs for businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and catering services.

After the price revision, the cost of a standard 14.2-kg non-subsidised domestic LPG cylinder has increased in major cities. In Delhi, the new price is around ₹913 per cylinder. In Mumbai, it is about ₹912.50, while in Kolkata it is roughly ₹939. In Chennai, the price has risen to about ₹928.50.

The increase is significant because a large number of urban households rely on non-subsidised LPG cylinders for cooking. This is also the second price increase in less than a year. The previous hike of ₹50 was announced in April 2025.

Commercial LPG cylinders, which are widely used by businesses, have also become more expensive. The price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder has increased by around ₹114.5. After the hike, the price in Delhi has reached approximately ₹1,883 per cylinder.

Commercial LPG is commonly used by restaurants, hotels, catering services, and small industries. Because of this increase, operating expenses for these businesses could rise, which may eventually lead to higher prices for consumers in the food and hospitality sector.

Companies operating restaurants and food chains may also feel the impact. Firms such as Jubilant FoodWorks, which operates Domino’s Pizza in India, and Westlife Foodworld, which runs McDonald’s outlets in several regions, rely on LPG for cooking operations. Hospitality companies like Indian Hotels Company could also see higher costs due to the increase in fuel prices.

Officials have linked the LPG price hike to the sharp rise in global energy prices. The surge in energy costs is largely tied to escalating geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have raised concerns about energy supply disruptions in the Middle East.

Shipping routes in the region have also been affected. Tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil and gas transit routes, has slowed due to rising security risks. Since a significant share of global oil and gas exports passes through this narrow waterway, any disruption can quickly push energy prices higher.

The geopolitical tensions have already triggered a surge in global energy markets. Benchmark Brent Crude has risen to around $92.69 per barrel, while WTI Crude Oil is trading near $90.90 per barrel.

Natural gas prices have also increased sharply. Asian spot LNG prices have jumped to about $25.40 per MMBtu, more than double the levels seen a week earlier and the highest in nearly three years.

The rise in global energy prices has created pressure on domestic fuel prices in India, including LPG. As energy costs continue to rise, both households and businesses may face higher expenses in the coming months.

Overall, the LPG price hike highlights how global energy market disruptions can quickly affect domestic fuel prices. With geopolitical tensions still high and global energy supplies uncertain, fuel costs may remain volatile in the near term.