On Friday, state-run oil companies in India raised the prices of commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) significantly, with the cost of a 19-kg cylinder increasing by ₹993 to ₹3,071.50 and a 5-kg cylinder rising by ₹261.50 to ₹810.50. This 47% increase is expected to adversely affect migrant workers, community kitchens, and small businesses, particularly in the food service and construction sectors. Many migrant workers, already struggling with rising costs, are considering returning to their villages where alternatives like firewood are cheaper. The price hikes have also led to a surge in black market prices for 5-kg cylinders, with reports of costs rising from ₹100 to ₹350-400 per kg. Despite these increases, the Indian Oil Corporation stated that prices for domestic LPG consumers have not changed, ensuring stability for the majority of households. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri defended the oil marketing companies, highlighting their efforts to shield consumers from previous crude price surges. However, the ongoing volatility in global oil prices, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, raises concerns about future fuel costs and economic stability.