EconomyMonday, 12 October 2026·The Hindu - Economy
Retail inflation hits 23-month high of 5.5% in September 2026 on food and fuel prices
India’s CPI inflation rose to 5.5% in September 2026, the highest since October 2024.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In September 2026, India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) retail inflation rose to 5.5%, the highest since October 2024, according to official data released on October 12, 2026.
Key specifics
- September 2026 CPI inflation stood at 5.5%, up from 4.8% in August 2026.
- The RBI’s upper comfort limit for retail inflation is 6%.
- Food and beverages inflation jumped to 7.4% in September 2026 from 5.7% in August 2026.
- Transport inflation rose to 5% and pushed restaurant and accommodation services inflation to 9.4%.
- Personal care, social protection and miscellaneous goods & services inflation was 13.75% in September 2026.
Exam lens
Economy MCQ on CPI inflation, RBI comfort band of 6%, September 2026 data, food inflation at 7.4%, and the role of fuel and precious metals — a standard TNPSC inflation question.