RBI Holds Key Interest Rate Steady at 6.5% in February Monetary Policy

In its February monetary policy meeting, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) opted to maintain the key interest rate at 6.5 percent. This decision came amidst ongoing concerns surrounding inflationary pressures and economic uncertainties.

Cautious Outlook on Inflation by RBI MPC Members

The minutes of the RBI’s monetary policy committee (MPC) meeting revealed a cautious stance regarding inflation, primarily driven by uncertainties in food prices. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das highlighted the persistent volatility in food prices as a significant factor influencing the inflation outlook. Additionally, concerns over geopolitical tensions and disruptions in the supply chain further added to the apprehension regarding inflationary pressures.

Emphasis on Maintaining Restrictive Monetary Policy

RBI Deputy Governor Michael Debabrata Patra stressed the importance of a restrictive monetary policy to curb inflationary pressures while minimizing the adverse effects on economic output. The committee acknowledged the necessity of sustaining downward pressure on inflation to ensure economic stability.

Analysis of January’s Inflation Figures

Data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation indicated a deceleration in India’s headline retail inflation rate to a three-month low of 5.10 percent in January. This decline was primarily attributed to easing food prices. Notably, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate in December 2023 stood at 5.69 percent.

Factors Driving the Decline in Inflation

The drop in inflation during January was fueled by a slowdown in the price momentum of food items. Specifically, the Consumer Food Price Index witnessed a decrease of 0.7 percent compared to December 2023. Within the food category, the price indices for vegetables and fruits experienced notable declines of 4.2 percent and 2.0 percent, respectively, on a month-on-month basis.

RBI’s Persistent Efforts Against Inflation

The decision to maintain the key interest rate at 6.5 percent in the February monetary policy reflects the RBI’s continued vigilance against inflationary pressures. This marks the sixth consecutive pause in interest rate adjustments, underscoring the central bank’s commitment to managing inflation while ensuring sustainable economic growth.

Since the April monetary policy of 2023, the RBI has refrained from altering the repo rate, following a series of increases totaling 250 basis points initiated in May 2022. This strategic approach demonstrates the RBI’s responsiveness to evolving economic conditions and its dedication to maintaining price stability.

By prioritizing a balanced monetary policy stance, the RBI aims to navigate the complex challenges posed by inflationary pressures while fostering a conducive environment for economic prosperity.