RBI launches three key surveys to gauge inflation and economic sentiment

Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken a major step to gauge public opinion on the country's economy and inflation. On Friday, the RBI launched three key surveys to gather information on public expectations, spending habits, and economic outlook. The results of these surveys will directly influence upcoming monetary policy decisions.

The RBI conducts such surveys every quarter to understand people's expectations regarding inflation, employment, and income. This time, three major surveys have been launched under the November 2025 round:

1. Inflation Expectation Survey of Households (IESH)

2. Urban Consumer Confidence Survey (UCCS)

3. Rural Consumer Confidence Survey (RCCS)

What is the purpose of these surveys?

The first IESH survey is being conducted in 19 cities across the country. Households will be asked how much they expect inflation to rise or fall in the coming months. This survey will be based on the prices of everyday consumer goods.

The second survey will gather opinions of people living in UCCS cities on their economic situation, employment, price levels, income and expenditure, to assess the economic confidence of urban consumers.

The third survey, the RCCS, will be conducted in rural and semi-urban areas. It will ask people in 31 states and union territories how they view the current economic situation and prospects for the next year.

Why are these surveys important?

The RBI says the results of these surveys provide crucial inputs for the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). They help understand what changes the public expects in inflation, employment, and income in the future.