Even as people grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic consequences, the Union government adds to the strain by raising fuel prices. With its decisions, the Union administration has driven the people to the brink. The rising cost of petrol and diesel has made life miserable for the average person.

The recent upsurge in fuel prices has raised additional concerns for businesses and people already dealing with low demand as a result of the second wave of COVID-19 and lockdown-like restrictions. This hike would result in higher freight and transportation costs across the sectors. This will almost certainly be passed on to customers in the shape of higher final product costs.

Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev had claimed in 2018 that he could sell petrol and diesel for as little as Rs 35-40 a litre if the government lets him. Will the Government bites his bait now? Will it let Ramdev to give a try? And, if it’s indeed possible, why the Centre is shying from taking a decision in national interest?

There are definitely too many indirect consequences. With each increase in fuel prices, the majority of products will become more expensive. The overall price increase that occurs as a result of higher fuel costs will burn a hole in your pocket.

The cost of transportation and raw materials will rise. Farmers’ production costs will rise, while their net profit will decrease. Manufacturers are likewise affected by the same issues. An rise in national fuel prices serves no purpose other than to fatten the administration’s revenues. Every other activity is hampered as a result. It is commonly acknowledged that higher fuel prices would stymie economic progress. People’s incomes will be impacted by an economic slowdown. It will be difficult for them to make ends meet.

The government should have looked for ways to stimulate people’s consumption at a time when their incomes are being reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the Modi Government turned out to be a big failure, people have started missing Baba Ramdev with the hope that he could made the Petroleum Minister and bring the rising fuel prices under control. It may sound sarcastic, but people have no other options while Modi Government keeps adding to their woes with unpopular and draconian measures.