<h1>RBI Hikes REPO Rate and Cash Reserve Ratio by 50 Basis Points to Tackle Inflation Amid Rising Oil Prices.</h1> The Finance Ministry announced a 50 basis point increase in both the REPO rate and the Cash Reserve Ratio by the Reserve Bank of India to address inflation driven by rising crude oil prices, which recently reached $136.80 per barrel. Despite inflation concerns, the Ministry highlighted strong domestic agricultural performance and adequate wheat and rice stocks. The RBI aims to manage demand without hindering economic growth, maintaining a balance between supply and demand. The policy is intended to bolster investor confidence and support economic growth while ensuring a stable external sector and comfortable foreign exchange reserves.