Mumbai, 06 April (H.S.):

The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), chaired by Governor Sanjay Malhotra, commenced its first three-day review for FY 2026-27 today (April 6-8) to assess interest rates and inflation amid West Asia crisis.

Economists anticipate the repo rate remaining steady at 5.25%, navigating global uncertainties, elevated crude prices, and currency pressures. Decisions on policy rates and inflation targets will be announced April 8.

The repo rate—RBI's short-term lending rate to banks—directly influences loans, EMIs, savings, and investments. Last held at 5.25% in February 2026 MPC meeting; cumulative 125 bps cuts since February 2025, latest December 2025 (25 bps reduction).

Six-member MPC (3 RBI officials including Governor, 3 external experts appointed by Centre) targets inflation control. FY27 schedule: June 3-5, August 3-5, October 5-7, December 2-4, February 3-5, 2027.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar