RBI’s monetary policy today was along expected lines with status quo on rates and continued accommodative stance. While the central bank acknowledged that the spread of Covid-19’s second wave into rural areas had brought forth downside risks and a slight reduction in GDP estimates for the year, the forecast of a normal monsoon bodes well for pickup in demand indicators going ahead. In continuation of a slew of measures taken by RBI since the start of the pandemic to better mitigate its impact on businesses & economy, there were additional ones announced today such as a separate liquidity window of Rs. 15,000 crore for certain contact-intensive sectors like supply chain, private bus operators, rent-a-car service providers, vehicle repair services among others. Such steps will keep liquidity abundant and financing conditions congenial necessary for preserving financial stability of all stakeholders.