New Delhi/Srinagar, Jan 1:
The year 2026 has begun with a significant financial blow for the hospitality and service sectors. State-owned Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), including Indian Oil (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL), have announced a sharp hike of ₹111 in the price of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders, effective immediately from January 1.
While businesses face rising input costs, there is a sigh of relief for ordinary households as the rates for 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinders remain unchanged across the country.
The ₹111 jump is expected to put immediate pressure on the profit margins of hotels, restaurants, and small eateries. Industry experts warn that if these costs are sustained, consumers may soon see a hike in the prices of cooked food and catering services.
“A hike of this magnitude at the very start of the year is a major setback. We are already dealing with high vegetable prices; this fuel hike might force many small restaurants to revise their menu cards,” said a representative of a local restaurant association.
In a move to shield the common man from inflationary pressure, the government and OMCs have kept domestic gas prices steady.
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Delhi Domestic Rate: Remains at ₹853 per 14.2 kg cylinder.
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Mumbai Domestic Rate: Stays at ₹852.50.
Additionally, as a New Year “gift” for some, Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) announced a slight reduction of ₹0.70 per SCM in Piped Natural Gas (PNG) prices for residents in Delhi-NCR.
LPG prices are reviewed on the 1st of every month based on international benchmark rates and foreign exchange fluctuations. Officials noted that while crude oil trends play a role, the specific hike in commercial segments reflects the current global cost of LPG and domestic transportation logistics.
