On his last day as the Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Shaktikanta Das shared his experiences during a press conference. His tenure, which began on December 12,2018, concluded on December 10, 2024. During the conference, he mentioned that decision-making now-a-days is very challenging. Over the past six years, his efforts were focused on adhering to certain principales. He emphasized that teamwork at the TBI had been very effective.
I have always tried to do best: Das
He further added, ”it was my privilege to have the opportunity to serve as the RBI Governor. I have always tried to give my best, and this journey was not just mine.” He also stated that the central bank always faces challenges, and one of the key issues it deals with is maintaining the balance between inflation and growth. He expressed confidence that the next Governor would take this further. Another significant issue facing the RBI is the changing global order.
Das played a crucial role in steering India’s financial system
During his six year tenure, Shaktikant Das played a crucial role in steering India’s financial system out of several challenges. In 2023 and 2024, he was named the world’s top central banker twice.
As RBI Governor, Das played an important role in stabilizing India’s economy during some of the most turbulent times, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the Israel-Hamas conflict.
When Shaktikant Das took office in 2018, the repo rate was 6.50%. Under his leadership, the RBI reduced it to 4% to promote economic growth. Later, to control inflation, the rate was raised back to 6.50%.
Shashi Rai