The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its bi-monthly Rural Consumer Confidence Survey (RCCS) for March 2026, indicating a significant decline in rural consumer confidence. The Current Situation Index (CSI) has dropped into the pessimistic zone after six consecutive rounds of optimism, reflecting growing concerns among households. The Future Expectations Index (FEI), although still optimistic, has also deteriorated to 125.1. The survey, conducted from February 25 to March 10, 2026, gathered 8,928 responses from rural and semi-urban areas across all Indian states and three major Union Territories. Respondents reported increasing prices and inflation, with the current inflation perception rising by 50 basis points to 5.6%. Furthermore, expectations for inflation over the next year have increased by 60 basis points to 6.8%. This shift in consumer sentiment highlights the growing economic concerns in rural India.