Fuel Duty Cut Eases Burden Amid Global Price Surge: Amit Shah

New Delhi, March 2026 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the Centre’s decision to cut excise duty on petrol and diesel has brought much-needed relief to citizens at a time when global fuel prices are rising due to the West Asia crisis.

In a post on social media platform X, Shah said that many countries are facing fuel shortages and rising prices because of ongoing geopolitical tensions. He noted that the decision taken by the government under the leadership of Narendra Modi reflects a strong commitment to public welfare and responsive governance.

He stated that while several nations have increased fuel prices, India has taken a different approach by reducing excise duty, showing concern for citizens and their daily expenses. He praised the Prime Minister for taking a timely and people-focused decision.

The government has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ten rupees per litre each. After the revision, excise duty on petrol has been reduced to three rupees per litre, while diesel has been brought down to zero. The move is aimed at protecting consumers from the impact of rising international crude oil prices.

The government has also announced duty exemptions for fuel exports and supplies to aircraft flying to foreign destinations. In addition, it has withdrawn an earlier notification issued in 2022 and granted customs duty relief on imported aviation turbine fuel, which is expected to support the aviation sector.

The decision comes amid concerns over a global energy crisis caused by tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, along with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, an important route for oil transport. These factors have led to instability in global supply and higher crude oil prices.

Oil marketing companies are expected to absorb part of the financial impact of the duty cut. At present, they are estimated to be facing losses of about forty eight point eight rupees per litre due to high global crude prices.

At the same time, global oil prices have shown a slight decline. Brent crude prices fell by about two point two nine percent to one hundred five dollars and fifty three cents per barrel, while United States West Texas Intermediate crude dropped by about two point five four percent to ninety two dollars and eight cents per barrel.

The government has also assured that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or cooking gas in the country. Citizens have been advised not to believe false information being spread to create panic. Officials said that fuel supplies remain stable and adequate across India.