BENGALURU, April 7 Reuters Indian shares inched higher on Wednesday, ahead of a central bank decision that could leave interest rates at record lows, as a second surge in domestic coronavirus cases sparked fears about the impact on economic growth.

The Reserve Bank of India RBI, which has slashed its main repo rate by 115 basis points since March 2020 to cushion the impact of the COVID19 pandemic, was expected to keep its benchmark lending rate at 4.

Economists had expected the RBI to start normalising policy or unwind the large scale rupee liquidity in the banking system in the June quarter or latest by September quarter. That is now expected to be delayed, according to analysts.

The Monetary Policy Committee is likely to maintain that growth needs consistent firm traction and continued policy support is crucial for a durable growth revival, Emkay Global Financial Services said in a preview note.

The NSE Nifty 50 index rose 0.2 to 14,709 and the SP BSE Sensex was up 0.1 at 49,256.10 by 0347 GMT.

Investors will be keeping an eye on the central banks liquidity stance to support the economy in relation to rising COVID19 cases and inflation forecasts amid a rise in global commodity prices, especially crude oil.

Earlier this week, India breached the grim milestone of 100,000 daily coronavirus infections for the first time.

Restaurant chain operator BarbequeNation Hospitality Ltds shares will make their debut in the Mumbai market on Wednesday.

The International…