Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das revealed in a recent address that vegetable prices in India are already showing signs of softening and are expected to decrease from September onwards. This positive trend comes as a relief, considering that escalating vegetable and cereal prices contributed to a retail inflation surge of 7.44% in July, the highest in 15 months.
Das expressed optimism about the forthcoming drop in vegetable inflation and highlighted a positive outlook for cereal prices. Despite geopolitical tensions that could impact food prices, he emphasized the gradual easing of core inflation as an encouraging indicator of successful monetary policy transmission.
The RBI remains vigilant to prevent persistent inflation that could affect various segments, thereby keeping the focus on maintaining price stability and aligning inflation with the Monetary Policy Committee’s target of 4%.
In the context of the Indian economy, Das also underscored the importance of price stability as a foundation for sustainable growth. He indicated that the current conditions are favorable for continued growth and the acceleration of the capital expenditure cycle in the upcoming fiscal year.
Additionally, addressing foreign exchange reserves, he mentioned that while there is no specific target for the rupee, the RBI is committed to strengthening its reserves to effectively manage potential dollar outflows. The central bank’s strategic efforts to enhance systemic resilience and efficiency further underline its dedication to maintaining external stability and bolstering forex reserves.