At 7.1%, India's factory output jumps to eight-month high in April

According to National Statistical Office data, India's factory output growth increased to an eight-month high of 7.1% in April, owing to a lower base. In April, electricity output surged by double digits (11.8%), while mining and manufacturing increased by 7.8% and 6.3%, respectively. Except for consumer non-durables, all sectors grew at a rapid pace, according to use-based classification.

Capital goods, which indicate investment demand in the economy, climbed 14.7% during the month, while consumer non-durables grew only 0.3%, indicating weak rural demand. After six months of consecutive contraction, consumer durables (8.5%) experienced positive growth. According to the Chief Economist at Bank of Baroda Mr. Madan Sabnavis the IIP growth figure bolsters the confidence provided by the Purchasing Managers' Indices and goods and services tax collections during this tough period. We need to examine if this momentum can be maintained in the future, as it would be required for GDP growth to remain above 7% this year. Sustenance will be the mantra, as corporates finished the year on a high note in the fourth quarter. He believes that consumer demand and corporate investment will provide signals in the coming months.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.