SSC GD 2026 PYQ — Question 36

Correct Answer:

Wholesale Price Index

Explanation:

The Wholesale Price Index is the primary economic indicator that measures and tracks the changes in the price of goods at the wholesale or producer level before they reach the retail market. It captures price movements at the bulk sale stage, such as transactions between corporations or manufacturers, covering primary articles, fuel and power, and manufactured products.

Key Points:

The Wholesale Price Index is compiled and released monthly by the Office of the Economic Adviser under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Unlike the Consumer Price Index, which tracks retail prices paid directly by consumers for both goods and services, the Wholesale Price Index strictly focuses on goods and does not include services.

It serves as a crucial tool for policymakers to monitor supply-side cost pressures and price drifts across manufacturing and industrial sectors.

Important Questions and Answers:

Question: Which ministry in India is responsible for releasing the Wholesale Price Index?

Answer: Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Question: Does the Wholesale Price Index include services?

Answer: No, it measures price changes exclusively for goods.