What is the role of the RBI in shaping India's economic policies?
The **Reserve Bank of India (RBI)** is the cornerstone of India’s economic policy framework, wielding authority over monetary stability, financial systems, and growth initiatives. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its multifaceted role: --- ### **1. Monetary Policy Formulation** - **Inflation Control**: - Uses the **repo rate** (lending rate to banks) to target CPI inflation within **4% ± 2%**. - *Example*: Hiked repo rate from **4% to 6.5%** (2022–23) to combat 7.8% inflation. - **Liquidity Management**: - **Open Market Operations (OMOs)**: Buys/sells government bonds to regulate money supply. - **CRR/SLR**: Adjusts cash reserve (4.5%) and statutory liquidity ratios (18%) for banks. **Impact**: Influences borrowing costs, consumption, and investment. --- ### **2. Banking Regulation & Supervision** - **Licensing & Oversight**: Grants licenses to banks/NBFCs an...