<h1>Retail inflation plunges to 0.25% in October as GST cuts and falling food prices ease CPI pressures</h1> Retail inflation fell to 0.25% in October after GST reductions on nearly 380 items and softer food prices, marking the lowest reading in the current CPI series; food inflation declined to -5.02%. The decline reflects full-month GST effects, favourable base effects and easing across oils, vegetables, fruits, eggs, transport and other categories. The central bank, mandated to target 4% CPI ±2%, may revise down its FY2026 inflation projection and has scope for easing monetary policy, including a potential 25-basis-point rate cut at its December meeting, according to economists and rating agencies.