India’s Retail Inflation Rises Marginally to 3.48% in April 2026

India’s Retail Inflation rose marginally to 3.48% in April from 3.4% in March, according to data released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) on Tuesday.  

The increase was largely driven by higher food prices and a rise in costs across personal care and household-related categories. 

The latest reading marked the fourth consecutive rise under the revised Consumer Price Index (CPI) series introduced earlier this year. Inflation remained below the Reserve Bank of India’s medium-term target of 4% during the month. 

Food Inflation Moves Higher 

Food inflation, measured by the Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI), increased to 4.25% in April compared with 3.87% in March. Prices of several vegetables and food products recorded sharp year-on-year increases. 

Coconut prices rose 44.55% during the month, while tomato inflation stood at 35.28%. Cauliflower prices increased 25.58%, while green chillies, cabbage, grapes, raisins and brinjal also recorded higher inflation levels. 

At the same time, some food items continued to witness lower prices. Potato prices declined 23.69% from a year ago, while onion prices fell 17.67%. 

Rural Inflation Remains Higher 

Inflation in rural areas rose to 3.74% in April from 3.63% in March. Urban inflation also moved up marginally to 3.16% from 3.11% in the previous month. 

The data showed price increases in categories such as personal care, tobacco products, intoxicants, restaurants, and accommodation services. Inflation also remained elevated in precious metals and jewellery, including silver, gold, diamond, and platinum items. 

Global Factors Add Pressure 

The inflation data comes at a time when global crude oil prices remain volatile following tensions in West Asia. Domestic fuel prices have largely remained unchanged despite the rise in international oil prices. 

The rupee weakened further during the month, increasing the cost of imported goods and bullion. India, one of the world’s largest oil importers, remains exposed to higher energy prices and imported inflation pressures. 

Read More: Uttar Pradesh Government Approves ₹33,000 Crore Meja Thermal Power Expansion Project! 

Conclusion 

Retail inflation stayed within the RBI’s tolerance band in April, though higher food prices and imported cost pressures continued to influence overall consumer inflation during the month. 

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