Business

RBI Expected to Reduce Repo Rate by 25 Basis Points in Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s Initial Policy Decision

Published

1 year ago

February 7, 2025

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is poised to unveil its initial monetary policy under the leadership of new Governor Sanjay Malhotra this Friday.
Analysts expect the central bank to lower the repo rate by 25 basis points (bps) to foster economic growth while keeping inflation in check.
A report from Bank of Baroda highlights that inflationary pressures have lessened, largely due to falling prices of essential vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. This improved supply situation has contributed to less volatility in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), providing the RBI with some flexibility for a cautious rate reduction.

The report notes, “After weighing all macroeconomic and geopolitical factors, we believe there is room for a 25 bps rate cut by the RBI in the upcoming policy.”
Currently, the repo rate is at 6.50 percent, which has remained unchanged for the last eleven meetings.

During the December policy meeting, the MPC decided 5-1 to keep the rate steady, focusing on stability while observing inflation trends. Nonetheless, a 50 bps reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) was enacted, lowering it to 4 percent, to enhance liquidity and support credit growth.
While a 25 bps cut is widely anticipated, experts believe that the RBI will also need to introduce additional liquidity measures to ensure sufficient cash flow in the banking sector.
Emkay Research has indicated that both investors and market players are seeking policy actions beyond standard rate cuts, as liquidity issues remain a persistent challenge.
For the financial year 2024-25, the RBI has projected India’s real GDP growth at 7.2 percent, while the Economic Survey estimates a 6.4 percent growth rate, which aligns with the projections from the National Statistical Office (NSO).
In light of these economic forecasts, a cautious and thoughtful approach to rate cuts appears likely, with future adjustments contingent on evolving inflation trends and macroeconomic developments.
As the MPC gears up for its latest decision, market participants will closely monitor Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s views on rate adjustments and liquidity management, as well as any additional policy announcements aimed at sustaining India’s economic momentum.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

9 hours ago

May 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by Rs.3 per litre across the country from today. Oil marketing companies revised the rates due to the rise in global crude oil prices.

After the hike, petrol price in Bengaluru has reached Rs.106.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs.94.10 per litre.

The increase comes amid fluctuations in international crude oil prices and tensions in West Asia, including the Iran conflict. The fall in the value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has also increased import costs.

The fuel price hike is expected to affect transportation and daily essentials. Transport charges for goods may rise, leading to higher prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, and other items. Bus, auto, and taxi fares may also increase.

Earlier, fuel prices were reduced before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2022, the Centre had also cut excise duty to control inflation after the Covid pandemic.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; Demand for Ornaments Remains Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been reported at high levels today. The rate for 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.14,962 per gram. The price for 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is Rs.13,715 per gram. Meanwhile, 18 karat gold (75% purity) is being sold at Rs.11,222 per gram.

Mangaluru is well known for its deep cultural connection with gold. The city has a long tradition of buying and wearing gold ornaments. This tradition continues strongly even today.

Local jewellers say that demand for gold remains steady despite high prices. Many people still prefer to invest in gold for safety and long-term value. Gold is also an important part of weddings and festivals in the region.

Apart from its love for seafood, Mangaluru is also famous for its gold market. The gold trade in the city has a long history and continues to grow.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making a purchase. They can also use a gold rate calculator to get exact pricing based on weight and purity.

Experts say that gold prices may change depending on global market trends. Customers should stay updated and make careful decisions while buying gold.

Business

Pune FDA Seizes 3,800 Kg of Adulterated Mango Pulp in Major Crackdown

Published

1 month ago

April 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

In a major action against food adulteration, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Pune has seized over 3,800 kilograms of mango pulp mixed with unsafe food colours.

The raid was carried out after officials received confidential information about illegal production activities in the district. Acting quickly, an FDA team traced the source to a manufacturing unit in Urse village in Maval taluka.

During the inspection, officers found that the mango pulp was being prepared using unauthorised food colours and other banned substances. These materials are not allowed under food safety rules and can be harmful to consumers.

The unit was reportedly operated by Mohammad Ekramul, also known as Akram Gulam. Authorities said the facility was violating multiple food safety regulations.

Officials immediately seized the adulterated stock and stopped further production at the site. The FDA has also begun investigating the supply chain to identify where the products were being distributed.

Authorities warned that strict action will be taken against those involved in food adulteration. They also urged the public to stay cautious while buying food products, especially during the mango season.

Further investigation into the case is currently underway.