Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
India’s retail inflation rose to a four-month high of 4.82 per cent in August, driven largely by increasing food prices that continue to put pressure on household budgets and consumer spending.
According to data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) on Monday, inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased from 4.45 per cent in July to 4.82 per cent in August. The rise was mainly attributed to higher prices of food items, which remain a key component of household expenditure.
Food inflation climbed to 5.95 per cent in August, up from 5.52 per cent in July, reflecting continued price pressures in essential commodities. The increase is expected to further strain family budgets, particularly among middle- and lower-income households.
The latest inflation figures come at a time when affordability concerns are growing across the country. Rising food costs have emerged as a major factor influencing overall consumer prices and impacting purchasing power.
Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has projected CPI inflation at 5 per cent for the financial year 2026-27. The central bank estimates inflation at 4.7 per cent in the second quarter, 5.9 per cent in the third quarter and 5.5 per cent in the fourth quarter.
Wholesale inflation also witnessed an uptick during the month. Inflation based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) rose to 9.92 per cent in August from 9.78 per cent in July, driven by higher prices of food products, fuel and manufactured goods.
The simultaneous increase in retail and wholesale inflation highlights persistent price pressures in the economy and presents a challenge for policymakers seeking to balance growth while keeping inflation under control.
