Question 2 · 10 marks · 175 words written
Opening · a definition
Under Inflation Targeting, MPC tries to keep the inflation rate (CPI) within 4±2%. In order to control this rate, only repo rate can be altered.
Body · points
Perceived Successes
Preset benchmark assisted in better evaluation of RBI's effectiveness and Government's capability in controlling inflation.
Inflation rate for very long period of time stayed within the limit.
Enabled government to focus better on growth parameters as inflation and growth are contradictory.
Challenges
Monodimensional focus on one parameter for evaluation of effectiveness is not justified eg → criticism during covid for increase in inflation.
Make it more as a political tool → Hence Government focus is on controlling inflation not on other parameters eg → contractionary policy despite low growth rate to control inflation.
No std. established basis for setting the limit as more often food inflation > 10% but CPI is in the limit.
Close · a way forward
Thus, along with inflation control, focus should be given on targeted growth rate as well → this will help better in achieving $5 trillion dollar economy.