Commercial LPG cylinders, ATF costlier: these are other changes coming into effect in October
Several changes are coming into effect in October 2026 that could impact household budgets, travel expenses, cooking gas bookings, and certain digital payments.
Commercial LPG cylinders have become costlier
Oil companies have raised the price of commercial LPG cylinders by up to ₹70. This hike will primarily affect restaurants, hotels, caterers, and other businesses that use commercial cylinders.
For consumers, this could indirectly lead to slightly higher prices for tea, snacks, meals, and catering services. Catering bills for weddings and other events may also rise.
Air travel could become more expensive
Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF)—the fuel used by airlines—has become costlier by ₹16 per liter for domestic carriers, pushing the price from ₹121 to ₹137.
Since fuel accounts for a significant portion of an airline's operating costs, this hike could put upward pressure on airfares, especially during the busy festive travel season.
ACs, TVs, and refrigerators may become costlier
Starting in October, prices for air conditioners, LED TVs, washing machines, and refrigerators are being raised by approximately 3% to 8%. This marks the third price hike by the consumer electronics industry this year.
Companies have attributed this increase to rising international prices of raw materials like copper, steel, aluminum, and crude oil, as well as currency fluctuations.
However, consumers may still find products at older prices for some time, as dealers hold stock purchased before the price hike. Such old stock could remain available until around Diwali. Biometric
Verification Mandatory for Subsidized LPG
Starting October 1, customers availing subsidized LPG cylinders must complete biometric Aadhaar authentication or e-KYC. Those who have already completed this process do not need to do it again.
LPG supply or booking facilities will not be discontinued for customers who have not yet completed biometric verification. However, they cannot receive cylinders at the subsidized rate until their e-KYC is completed.
New UPI Charges for Certain Large Merchants
Effective October 1, a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) will apply to certain UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000 involving large merchants. Small merchants with total monthly UPI receipts of up to ₹1 lakh will not incur any charges, regardless of the individual transaction amount. Person-to-person UPI payments will also remain free.
Therefore, there will be no direct change in payment costs for the majority of general UPI users.