New Delhi, Mar 27: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has welcomed the government’s recent decision to reduce central excise duties on petrol and diesel, describing it as a timely safeguard for domestic consumers amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

The excise duty has been cut by Rs 3 per litre on petrol and Rs 10 per litre on diesel, a move aimed at easing inflationary pressures and protecting households and businesses from external price shocks.

"Amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia impacting global energy markets, the reduction of ₹10 per litre in central excise duty on petrol and diesel comes as a timely safeguard for domestic consumers. The move effectively insulates households and businesses from external price shocks easing inflationary pressure while maintaining economic stability.

At the same time, the imposition of export duties on diesel and ATF demonstrates a balanced policy framework prioritising national interest, energy security, and equitable resource management," said Pradhan.

Expressing gratitude, Pradhan extended sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for what he termed a “decisive, well-considered intervention under challenging global circumstances.”

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The excise duty reduction comes against the backdrop of fluctuating global crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions impacting supply chains.

Overall, NDA leaders have projected the excise duty cut as a proactive and citizen-centric measure, reinforcing the government’s focus on economic stability and public welfare amid global uncertainties.