Raipur, March 27 Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday praised the Centre's decision to reduce excise duty on petrol and diesel, calling it a "historic" and "people-centric" move that would provide direct relief to 140 crore citizens across the country.
Sai said that amid the prevailing global challenges, the Centre's determination to shield citizens from additional financial burden reflects a sensitive and people-centric approach with a tangible impact on everyday life.
The government has reduced the special additional excise duty on petrol from ₹13 per litre to ₹3 and the same on diesel from ₹10 per litre to nil. This move aims to protect domestic consumers from a surge in global oil prices triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The government has also reintroduced duties on the export of diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF).
The excise duty cut follows record losses suffered by oil companies due to the surge in international oil prices. The prices of crude oil, the raw material for making petrol and diesel, have surged almost 50 per cent this month as the US and Israel's attack on Iran and Tehran's sweeping retaliation disrupts global supply.
Sai, in an official statement, lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "sensitivity and foresight" in taking the step.
The "historic" and "people-centric" move that would provide direct relief to 140 crore citizens across the country, he said.
The chief minister stated that the decision would bring significant relief to all sections of society, including families, farmers, labourers and the middle class.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Central government has consistently prioritized public welfare, and the latest decision reflects its commitment to the well-being of citizens, he said.