Retail Inflation Hits Seven-Month Low: Impact on RBI's Monetary Policy

Retail inflation in February fell to a seven-month low of 3.61%, driven by lower prices of vegetables and proteins, providing room for the RBI to consider another rate cut. This drop was reflected in urban and rural inflation rates, with Telangana experiencing the lowest inflation.

The consumer price index-based retail inflation dipped to a seven-month low of 3.61% in February, largely due to a decline in the prices of vegetables and protein-rich food items. This development could pave the way for the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to implement another interest rate cut next month.

According to data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO), headline inflation dropped significantly by 65 basis points in February compared to January. Meanwhile, year-on-year food inflation also saw a sharp decline, hitting the lowest rate since May 2023.

Economists anticipate further monetary easing by the RBI, citing the substantial easing of inflation rates, especially in the food sector. ICRA Chief Economist Aditi Nayar highlighted that while February's inflation decline was unexpected, the bank is likely to pursue additional rate cuts given the current favorable conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)