What is India's WPI inflation rate for January?
Synopsis
India's inflation rate based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for January has been reported at 1.81%, driven by increased prices in manufacturing sectors. This report analyzes the factors influencing inflation, including trends in food and housing prices.
Key Takeaways
WPI inflation for January stands at 1.81% .
Key contributors include basic metals , textiles , and food products .
Month-over-month WPI change was 0.51% .
Food inflation recorded at 2.13% .
Consumer inflation based on CPI is 2.75% .
New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) The annual inflation rate in India, derived from the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), has been recorded at 1.81 per cent for January this year, representing a change compared to the same month in the previous year, as per data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Monday.
The uptick in inflation for January is mainly attributed to the rise in prices related to the manufacturing of basic metals, other manufacturing, non-food articles, food articles, and textiles, according to the official report.
Additionally, the month-on-month WPI change for January 2026 was recorded at 0.51 per cent when compared to December 2025.
The Food Index, which incorporates 'Food Articles' from the primary articles category and 'food products' from the manufactured goods category, saw a decline from 196.0 in December 2025 to 194.2 in January 2026. The WPI Food Index inflation rate rose to 1.41 per cent in January compared to the same month last year.
The manufacturing index, which constitutes a significant 64.23 per cent of the WPI, witnessed a 1.3 per cent increase during the month. Among the 22 manufactured product categories, 19 experienced price hikes, while three saw a drop. Notable categories with price increases included the manufacture of basic metals, food products, textiles, other manufacturing, and electrical equipment.
In contrast, prices for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, medicinal chemicals, machinery and equipment, and furniture declined in January 2026 compared to December 2025.
On another note, India's inflation based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with a new base year of 2024, was estimated at 2.75 per cent for January, in comparison to the same month last year, according to data released last week.
Food inflation was recorded at 2.13 per cent for the month, with drops in prices for vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and garlic, alongside a decrease in prices for pulses like arhar and tur. However, tomato prices saw an increase during this time. Housing inflation was estimated at 2.05 per cent.
The data revealed a significant rise in inflation rates for silver jewellery at 159.67 per cent and gold jewellery at 46.77 per cent.
Point of View
It's essential to consider the broader economic implications. While a rise in the WPI inflation rate signifies pressures on manufacturers and consumers alike, it is crucial to monitor these trends closely to understand potential impacts on policy and spending. The nation must remain vigilant yet optimistic as we navigate these economic waters.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current WPI inflation rate in India?
The current Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation rate in India for January is 1.81%.
What factors contributed to the rise in WPI inflation?
The rise in WPI inflation is mainly due to increased prices in manufacturing sectors such as basic metals, textiles, and food products.
How does WPI inflation affect consumers?
WPI inflation can lead to higher costs for goods, which may eventually affect consumer prices and purchasing power.
What is the difference between WPI and CPI?
WPI measures the price changes at the wholesale level, while CPI measures changes in prices at the consumer level.
What was the food inflation rate in January?
The food inflation rate in January was recorded at 2.13%.
