RBI slashes key rate 50 bps to 5.5%, prioritizes GDP growth while balancing inflation targets under Governor Malhotra.

• Rate cut surprises markets; policy stance changes to 'neutral' amid limited easing space.
• CRR reduced by 1% to 3%, injecting ₹2.5 trillion liquidity into banks by December 2025.
• Malhotra defends front-loaded cuts for certainty in the uncertain economic environment.