RBI raises interest rates to control inflation

The RBI has continued with its hawkish monetary stance. For the 8th time since March 2010, the central bank increased the repo rate by 0.25%. It now stands at 6.75%. The reverse repo rate also was hiked by another 0.25% to 5.75%. This was mostly in line with market expectations.

So, why another rate hike, you may ask? Well, the disastrous news flashing from Japan has made us forget two very important things. Oil prices and Middle East politics. While oil prices might have eased a bit lately, since Japan is a large oil consumer, they may be back up very soon. High crude prices are of major concern to the central bank. Troubles in Libya and Bahrain have still not eased. And with threats of a nuclear disaster in Japan, the RBI expects that Japan may substitute thermal energy for nuclear power. This may impact fuel prices further.

What does the future hold? With WPI inflation standing at 8% in mid March 2011, the RBI is still off its 7% inflation target. Thus the watchdog has indicated that it will continue with its current anti-inflationary stance until further notice. 

Japan rebuilding will boost steel demand: Mobius

Japan is on the verge of a massive nuclear crisis. And very obviously, the question is being raised about India's nuclear power plans. The limelight is currently focused on the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project (JNPP). But the government seems to be wearing blinders. Union Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh is usually known for his strong stance on many environmental issues. However, as far as nuclear power is concerned, he seems too relaxed about it.

Let's look at some facts about the Jaitapur project. The plant, with a massive power generating capacity of 10,000 MW, is expected to be commissioned by 2020. It is located near the coastal area of the Arabian Sea inMaharashtra. According to the earthquake hazard zoning of India, it comes under Zone III - a moderate risk zone - on the scale of I to V. However, the Geological Survey of India revealed that the site and the surrounding area experienced 91 tremors between 1985 and 2005, ranging from 2.9 to 6.3 on the Richter scale and the area falls in Zone IV. Whatever the number be, the danger still remains.

Regarding the Jaitapur project, Mr Ramesh has stated that the seismicity aspects have been taken care of. Is seismic zone III or IV not a concern? And how about the tsunami aspects? To that, he seemed unsure if a tsunami probability was factored into the clearance process.

We agree that nuclear power is critical to an energy starved nation like ours. But probably the environment ministry needs to take some important lessons from the Japan crisis.