EconomySunday, 13 September 2026·The Hindu - Economy
WPI inflation climbs to 9.92% in August 2026; food, fuel and manufactured items drive rise
Wholesale price inflation rose to 9.92% in August 2026, with food, manufactured items and fuel and power showing sharp increases.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In August 2026, India’s wholesale price-based inflation rose to 9.92%, up from 9.78% in July, with the Commerce and Industry Ministry citing food, manufactured items, and fuel and power as the main drivers.
Key specifics
- Food index inflation rose to 7.05% in August 2026, from 6.65% in July.
- Manufactured items inflation reached 8.37%, described as a series high.
- Fuel and power basket inflation stood at 22.93% in August 2026.
- The Commerce and Industry Ministry identified mineral oils, food articles and basic metals among the major drivers.
- The RBI MPC kept the benchmark policy rate at 5.25% and projected retail inflation at 5% for FY27.
Exam lens
Economy questions may ask the August 2026 WPI figure, the July comparison, or the RBI policy rate of 5.25%; TNPSC often frames this as inflation trend analysis and sector-wise drivers.