March 2026 has started with inflation and economic changes. From March 1, major changes affecting many businesses and everyday expenses have come into effect. The most important among these is the increase in the prices of commercial LPG cylinders and the increase in the prices of ATF (Air Turbine Fuel), the effect of which can also be seen on air travel.
Commercial LPG cylinder becomes expensive
The price of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has been increased in India from today. Oil marketing companies have increased its prices from ₹28 to ₹31. This cylinder is now available in Delhi for around ₹ 1,768.50. At the same time, prices have also increased in cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai.
This cylinder is generally used in hotels, dhabas, kitchens, confectionaries and small businesses. This increase in cylinder prices has happened for the third consecutive month – its prices were increased in January and February also.
However, at present there has been no change in the price of domestic LPG (14.2 kg) and it remains stable. (For example in Delhi it is around ₹853).
Increase in aviation fuel (ATF) prices – making travel expensive?
Not only gas cylinders, Air Turbine Fuel (ATF) i.e. fuel for airplanes has also become expensive from March 1. Due to increase in its prices the cost of airlines will increase. This could lead to the possibility of ticket prices increasing, especially on short and domestic flights.
Experts say that when jet fuel becomes expensive, airlines may have to increase ticket prices or change services to reduce costs. (It has been mentioned in the past that tickets will become more expensive due to fuel being linked to refusals).
impact on daily life
Due to increase in the price of commercial gas cylinders, the costs of restaurants, dhabas, confectionaries and small businesses will increase. This expense may also impact consumers, causing prices for eating out, sweets and snacks to increase. The increase in cylinder prices will also have a direct impact on inflation during festivals like Holi.
Apart from this, passengers may have to face budget challenges due to air travel becoming expensive. Especially when the demand for tickets remains high even during the holidays and festival season, the new prices may hit the pockets of passengers.
other changes
It’s not just gas and flight costs that have increased since the start of March — there have also been changes in railway ticket booking rules, UPI and SIM card binding rules, which may impact everyday spending and digital transactions.
