The Reserve Bank of India has kept its policy rate unchanged, aligning with the expectations of most economists, as policymakers aim to provide a buffer for the economy while maintaining stability in the rupee's exchange rate.

The six-member Monetary Policy Committee unanimously voted to hold the benchmark repurchase rate steady at 5.25%, a decision in line with the forecasts of 29 out of 35 economists surveyed by media outlets. The policy stance remains neutral.

This move by the central bank underscores its determination to support economic growth, even as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the risk of an energy price shock elevate inflation concerns. With the inflation rate nearing the central bank's 4% target, economists anticipate that interest rate hikes could be implemented in the coming months.

"The Indian economy is entering this period of global turbulence with fundamentals that are far stronger than during any previous comparable period," Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated in a televised address. "We remain confident of weathering these shocks with minimal pain."

Friday's decision indicates the central bank's likely unwillingness to raise interest rates as a tool to bolster the rupee. The currency fell to near a record low of 97 last month. Instead, the government is considering alternative measures, such as reducing taxes on foreign investments in government bonds, to help stimulate capital inflows and support the currency.