RBI Raises Key Lending Rate to 5.5%, First Hike Since 2023

The Reserve Bank of India raised its benchmark repo rate — the rate it charges banks — by 25 basis points (0.25%) to 5.5% on Oct 7, 2026. All Monetary Policy Committee members voted for it. It is the first hike since Feb 2023, after cuts through most of 2025 and no change since Dec 2025.