Ahmedabad, May 25, 2026: Petrol prices in Ahmedabad have crossed ₹101 per litre, while diesel is hovering near ₹98. What’s more worrying is that oil marketing companies have started giving a “daily dose” of price hikes — with multiple increases recorded in just the first half of May.
In a sharp Editor’s View, THE BARODIAN has sounded a strong alarm for the Modi government, warning that the current global geopolitical storm could trigger a much bigger economic crisis through the dangerous 3-F combination — Food, Fuel and Fertilizer.
Global Fire, Local Burn
The editorial links the fresh round of fuel price increases directly to the Israel-Iran conflict and its impact on the Strait of Hormuz. This critical chokepoint handles nearly 20-22% of global crude oil and a large share of India’s LNG imports. With rising war risk premiums and longer shipping routes, India is already paying a heavy “war tax” on every litre of fuel.
The ripple effects are already visible:
- Higher diesel prices are pushing up truck transportation costs.
- This is expected to increase prices of vegetables, milk, grains and other essential items (Food inflation).
- Fertilizer prices may also come under pressure due to global supply chain disruptions from the Russia-Ukraine war.
“3-F” Alert for Modi Government
The editorial advises the central government to remain on high alert regarding the 3-F situation. It notes that even if geopolitical tensions ease, it usually takes months — sometimes years — for oil and commodity markets to stabilise.
Key concerns highlighted:
- Fuel prices are no longer under complete domestic control.
- Food inflation is likely to accelerate through higher logistics costs.
- Fertilizer availability and pricing could become the next flashpoint.
- Rising interest rates (to control inflation) may further increase EMIs for the middle class.
The piece argues that the “remote control” of India’s petrol and diesel prices currently lies in conflict zones like Tehran, Tel Aviv and the Strait of Hormuz — not in Delhi.
Economy Already Feeling the Heat
With the rupee under pressure due to expensive oil imports and global supply chains facing disruption, the editorial warns that the Indian economy is standing on shaky ground. It calls for proactive measures rather than reactive ones.
While the government has so far maintained that the situation is under watch, the editorial suggests that the common man is already paying the price through higher fuel costs and the silent but steady rise in the cost of living.