Retail inflation rises to 5.49 % in September from 3.65 % in August
New Delhi, October 14, 2024(ANI): India's Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation rate for September reached 5.49 percent from 3.65 percent in August, reflecting an uptick primarily due to higher food prices.
Inflation rates for rural and urban areas were 5.87 percent and 5.05 percent, respectively, indicating continued price pressures.The Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI) saw a significant year-on-year rise, with food inflation provisionally recorded at 9.24 percent for September.
Rural and urban food inflation stood at 9.08 percent and 9.56 percent, respectively, suggesting that food prices continue to pose a challenge for households. The spike in food inflation was driven largely by elevated prices in specific food categories.
Housing inflation also showed a slight increase at 2.78 percent in September compared to 2.66 percent in August. Notably, the housing index is calculated solely for urban sectors, reflecting price changes in rental and housing-related expenses.
Electricity inflation for September stood at 5.45 percent, higher than the previous month's rate of 4.91 percent. The All India Electricity index rose slightly to 162.5 from 162.4 in August, indicating upward pressure on utility costs.
There was a decline in inflation in certain food categories, including pulses and products, spices, meat and fish, and sugar and confectionery. The decrease in prices in these subgroups provided some relief to consumers. (ANI)