Retail inflation came in at a higher-than-expected 10.79 per cent in January. This was higher than 10.56 per cent recorded in December last year.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for rural areas increased 10.88 per cent (10.74 per cent). For urban areas, the CPI went up 10.73 per cent (10.42 per cent), official data released today showed.
A higher-than-expected CPI in January may constrain the Reserve Bank of India from looking at another policy rate cut in its upcoming March monetary policy review.
The vegetables basket recorded the highest inflation of 26.11 per cent among all the constituents that make the Consumer Price Index.
Vegetables were followed by the oil and fats segment at 14.98 per cent. Meat, fish and egg became 13.73 per cent more expensive during the month.
While, cereals and pulses became dearer by 14.9 per cent and 12.76 per cent, respectively on an annual basis, sugar turned more expensive by 12.95 per cent.
Clothing and footwear witnessed 11 per cent increase in prices.