India’s consumer price index (CPI) inflation is projected to drop to about 0.48% in October, according to a Reuters poll of 42 economists, down from 1.54% in September. The expected fall is driven by a sharp decline in food price inflation and a high base effect from last year. Core inflation is forecast at 4.3%, providing the Reserve Bank of India with additional room for potential rate cuts. Economists say supply-side risks such as uneven monsoon and import duties still warrant caution.