While some states in India, like those in the Delhi-NCR region, have petrol prices above ₹100, others, like Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, experience even steeper costs. But how do these prices compare to those in neighboring Bhutan?

Recently, a traveler to Bhutan, Mohd. Arbaaz Khan, was surprised to find Indian petrol brands like Bharat Petroleum and Indian Oil there. In a viral video, he enthusiastically shared his discovery, noting that petrol at a pump near the India-Bhutan border was priced at around ₹64 per liter. Given that petrol costs around ₹100 per liter in India, this price difference raised many eyebrows.
The key reason for this disparity lies in Bhutan’s economic structure. The ngultrum, Bhutan’s currency, is nearly equivalent to the Indian rupee, which means that the lower petrol prices are particularly striking. In India, rising fuel costs can be traced back to substantial taxes imposed by both the central and state governments. This taxation significantly contributes to the higher prices paid by consumers.
The video quickly gained traction on social media, amassing over 6.3 million views and generating a flood of comments. Some users expressed confusion over how Bhutan maintains these lower prices despite relying on India for oil imports. Others pointed out that India’s population size creates a larger demand and financial burden, suggesting that lowering state taxes could help bring prices down.
Expert comments from economists indicate that government policies play a significant role in fuel pricing. For instance, in a recent survey, nearly 70% of respondents believed that reducing taxes on petrol could lower living costs significantly.
Additionally, Bhutan’s approach to public welfare may also factor in its fuel pricing. Many praised the country’s monarchy for prioritizing essential services like education and healthcare, which allows them to offer competitive prices.
In summary, the contrast between petrol prices in India and Bhutan sheds light on broader issues of taxation, economic policy, and national governance. As the conversation continues on social media, it raises important questions about sustainability and the real cost of fuel.
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