A Reuters poll found 35 of 61 economists (about 60%) expect the RESERVE BANK OF
INDIA to raise rates 25bp to 5.50% in October as inflation rebounds — the first
hike since 2023. In a related question, 29 of 53 economists see at least one
more 25bp hike by December at the latest. The survey median projects the policy
rate at 5.75% at least through mid-2028, implying this tightening cycle would be
among the mildest in a decade. India’s August inflation accelerated to 4.82%,
above the RBI’s 4% target for a third consecutive month, driven by sharp energy
and food price increases.