India Inflation Shock: WPI Hits 11.39%, CPI At 5.54% As Crude Oil Touches $107 A Barrel

India faces a fresh inflation shock just as the festive season gathers momentum. Wholesale inflation surged to 11.39% in September, its highest reading in the new series, while retail inflation climbed to a 23-month high of 5.54%. Adding to the pressure, crude oil prices touched $107 per barrel amid escalating tensions in West Asia. From onions and garlic to fuel and transportation, rising costs are squeezing household budgets and threatening festive spending. The government has stepped in with measures to improve sugar supplies, but will these interventions be enough? Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India faces a difficult balancing act between controlling inflation and protecting economic growth. With crucial state elections approaching, rising prices could also become a major political challenge. Will inflation cross 6% in October? Could expensive crude force further RBI action? Watch our detailed report on India's growing inflation challenge and its economic impact.