India’s retail inflation touched 3.48% in April, marking the highest level in over a year as rising food and service costs continued to affect household budgets.
Data released by the government showed that prices of several daily-use items increased during the month. Food inflation remained a major concern, with vegetables, edible oils and packaged products becoming more expensive in many parts of the country.
Consumers also paid more for eating out, as restaurants passed on higher fuel and ingredient costs to customers. Education expenses, including school and tuition fees, also recorded a rise.
Pet care emerged as another growing contributor to inflation, with urban households spending more on pet food, healthcare and grooming services.
Meanwhile, gold and silver jewellery prices surged after the Centre increased import duties on precious metals to support the rupee and reduce imports.
While inflation remains below the RBI’s 4% target, experts say households are beginning to feel the impact of rising prices across both essential goods and lifestyle-related spending categories.
Analysts said rising crude oil prices and global tensions are adding pressure on inflation and could affect transportation and fuel costs in the coming months.
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