'it does not reflect our bills': netizens react to cpi data as inflation cools from 5. 08% to 3. 54%

The government released its monthly inflation data for the month of July on August 12. In the data set, it was revealed that the inflation in the country had cooled down from the previous

month's (June) 5.08 per cent to 3.54 per cent. This marked a difference of 1.54 per cent or 154 basis points. INFLATION RATES DIP This ostensibly monumental distinction or change

elicited a few reactions. And one netizen even took note of this and enquired about it on social media platform X. The X user, who claims to be a 'practising chartered accountant'

asked, "Why isn't the lowest inflation in July 2024 in 5 years trending?" Although not immediate, many others online responded to this post and contradicted him. One user

remarked, "Because it doesn’t reflect in our monthly bills." Another user reflected the sentiment, raising concerns over the distinction between data and reality. They remarked,

"Rubbish !! Go outside and feel the real inflation." Another user was even more critical and projected a lack of trust in the system. He remarked, "No one believes in these

figures anymore.! We have seen the worst @FinMinIndia and she is still there, so the ultimate worst is still yet to come. Another set of X users agreed with the suggestion that not much is

being said or not much appreciation is being shown to the 'welcome development'. One user remarked, "People in X are kept busy with trending negativity on Budget, Income tax,

no one has the time to appreciate this important thing." Another user commented on the matter and said, "Sigh. Because inflation is measured yoy and the base (July 2023) was marked

by insanely high food prices?" It is interesting to note, that although the inflation numbers declined in July, the prices of essentials like vegetables rose 14.13 per cent

month-on-month. However, year-on-year inflation dropped from 29.32 per cent to 6.83 per cent.