Wholesale Price Inflation in India decreases as new data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry shows a slowdown in price growth. On October 14, 2025, the ministry reported that the All-India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation rate stood at 0.13% for September 2025. This marks a decline from 0.52% in August, signaling easing price pressures across the economy.
Inflation refers to the general rise in prices of goods and services. In September, the slight positive inflation was mainly driven by higher prices of manufactured food products, non-food articles, textiles, and transport equipment. However, the overall WPI still fell by 0.19% compared to August.
The primary articles category, which makes up 22.62% of the WPI, declined to 189.0 in September. This represents a 3.32% drop compared to the same month last year. Similarly, the fuel and power category, accounting for 13.15% of the index, slipped to 143.4, showing a 2.58% year-on-year decline.
In contrast, manufactured products, which form the largest portion of the WPI at 64.23%, increased to 145.2. This reflects a 2.33% growth from last year, indicating strong demand and rising production costs in the manufacturing sector.
The WPI Food Index, which includes both food articles and processed food items, also dropped to 192.0 in September from 193.5 in August. Food inflation turned negative, falling from 0.21% in August to -1.99% in September. This decline suggests an improvement in food supply and a possible relief for consumers.
Month-on-month data shows more detailed changes. Primary articles decreased by 1.05%, and food articles fell by 1.38%. Non-food articles declined by 1.06%, while minerals rose by 1.36%. Prices for crude petroleum and natural gas increased by 0.64%, highlighting fluctuations in global energy markets.
The fuel and power sector showed a small 0.14% monthly drop. Mineral oil prices decreased by 0.54%, and coal fell by 0.15%. However, electricity costs rose by 1.20%, reflecting increased demand. Meanwhile, manufactured products registered a modest 0.21% increase compared to August.
The September WPI report was prepared using data collected with a response rate of 80.2%. For comparison, the final WPI figure for July was based on a 94.7% response rate. Although lower, this still provides a reliable picture of price trends across the economy.
Inflation has real-world impacts on people and businesses. Rising prices reduce the purchasing power of money, affecting household budgets and business costs. For states like Punjab, where agriculture contributes around 30% to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), changes in inflation directly influence farmers’ incomes and consumer spending.
Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, benefits from strong infrastructure and ranks among India’s top ten cities for quality of life. Its economy remains stable despite inflation fluctuations. Meanwhile, Mohali, part of the Chandigarh Tricity, has seen rapid growth with a 50% rise in population over the last decade. This reflects strong investment in real estate and the IT sector, creating jobs and boosting incomes.
Understanding inflation trends is vital for governments, businesses, and families. It helps policymakers plan better, assists companies in setting prices, and allows households to manage expenses effectively.
In conclusion, Wholesale Price Inflation in India decreases, showing signs of economic stability and easing cost pressures. With close monitoring and effective policy decisions, regions like Punjab can continue to support growth while protecting consumers from rising prices. Stable wholesale prices pave the way for a healthier economy and a better quality of life for millions.
