Shaktikanta Das, the new RBI Governor, holds his first press conference after assuming office today. He was appointed as the 25th RBI governor yesterday, after his predecessor Dr Urjit Patel quit.

Excerpts:

"I will try and uphold professionalism, core values, credibility and autonomy of this institution.

"It's an honour and great opportunity to serve RBI. I will try my best to work with everyone and work in the interest of Indian economy.

"Have scheduled a meeting with the MDs and the CEOs of public sector banks based in Mumbai tomorrow morning. This will be followed by meetings with public sector banks outside Mumbai as well as private sector banks later on.


"Banking is an important segment in our economy and its facing several challenges that need to be dealt with. It's the banking sector on which Id like to focus immediately.


"Will take measures which the economy requires in a timely manner."


When asked if deputy governor Viral Acharya was in office, Das quipped, "Yes, as far as I am aware. I just had tea with him."