New Delhi, April 14 -- Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rose for the third consecutive month, even as monsoon forecasts point to below-normal rainfall in FY27, according to the research report by the State Bank of India. The report, however, suggests that the impact on food prices looks limited at this point and that rates are likely to stay lower for longer.

India's Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rose to 3.40% in March, up from 3.21% in February 2026, driven by rising prices of paan, tobacco and intoxicants as also housing, water and fuel. This marks the third consecutive month of increase under the revised 2024 base year series. "Paan, tobacco and intoxicants increased to 4.25% (Feb: 3.44%) and Housing, water and Fuel rose to...