Shaktikanta Das, the RBI Governor Compares Inflation Targeting to Arjuna’s Precision

Shaktikanta Das, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor has drawn a unique parallel between the central bank’s approach to inflation targeting and Arjuna’s legendary focus on the bird’s eye in the Mahabharata. Speaking at a recent FICCI event, the 66-year-old governor highlighted the level of awareness among the public, citing instances where everyone from airport security personnel to fellow passengers approached him with queries about inflation and interest rates.

Governor Das has been instrumental in simplifying the concept of inflation targeting for the general public. He likened the RBI’s commitment to maintaining inflation at 4 percent to Arjuna’s unwavering eye during Guru Dronacharya’s test. Drawing inspiration from the Mahabharata, Das emphasized the central bank’s fixation on its mandated target, akin to Arjuna’s intense focus on the bird’s eye.

In practical terms, this means the RBI, much like Arjuna, is dedicated to precision. Das articulates the goal of keeping retail inflation at 4 percent or below, mirroring Arjuna’s single-minded vision. This comparison not only makes the complex world of monetary policy more accessible but also underscores the importance of unwavering dedication in achieving economic goals.