Commercial Cylinder Price Hike to New Rules for Gaming: Major Changes from May 1

May 1, 2026

Commercial gas cylinders have become more expensive by up to ₹994 starting today, i.e., May 1st. In Delhi, a cylinder is now available for ₹3,071.50. Additionally, the ‘Online Gaming Rules 2026’ have come into effect from today. Here are the 4 major changes taking effect today.

4 Major Changes Taking Place in May

1. Commercial Cylinders Become Up to ₹994 More Expensive

Oil companies have hiked the price of commercial gas cylinders by up to ₹994. In Delhi, the price has risen to ₹3,071.50. Previously, it was available for ₹2,078.50.

The rise in commercial cylinder prices will increase operating costs for restaurant owners. Catering services for weddings and events may also become more expensive after the hike in price.

2. New Rules for Online Gaming Come into Effect Today

The ‘Online Gaming Rules 2026’ have come into effect across the country starting today. Under these rules, the ‘Online Gaming Authority of India’ (OGAI) will be established.

This body will be responsible for regulating online games, categorizing them into different groups, and monitoring their operations.

Under this framework, games have been classified into three categories: Online Money Games, Online Social Games, and E-sports. Money games are banned, while registration will be mandatory for other gaming platforms.

Furthermore, the tightening of controls on foreign companies is expected to help curb betting activities. This will lead to an increase in government revenue and grant e-sports greater recognition as a legitimate sport.

3. Exports of Diesel and Aviation Fuel to Become Cheaper

Effective May 1st and for the subsequent 15 days, the Central Government has reduced the Special Additional Excise Duty levied on diesel exports to ₹23 per liter. In April, this rate stood at ₹55.5.

Meanwhile, the Special Additional Excise Duty on ATF (Aviation Turbine Fuel) has been lowered to ₹33 per liter. In April, this rate was ₹42. Furthermore, by amending the definition of fuel, the Ministry of Petroleum has now authorized the blending of synthetic fuels into ATF.

The authorization of synthetic blending in ATF will encourage the adoption of eco-friendly and alternative fuels within the aviation sector, thereby bringing greater clarity to industry standards.

4. UAE Exits OPEC and OPEC+ Effective Today

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has withdrawn from OPEC and OPEC+, effective May 1st. This constitutes the world’s largest oil-producing organization, which controls approximately 40–50% of the global oil supply and influences prices by establishing production quotas.

By stepping out from under OPEC’s restrictions, the UAE will be able to increase its oil production. This is expected to boost supply in the global market and lead to a decline in crude oil prices. Oil-importing nations, such as India, will gain the opportunity to diversify their sources of oil supply.