India's GDP boom: Miracle or mirage?

India 's GDP growth rate of 7.8 per cent in April-June 2025 was far higher than anyone expected.

- Santosh Kumar Mohapatra

This growth, in fact, bettered the assessment of most analysts, who expected it to be 6.5-7 per cent. Like past, the number triggered prompt celebration and self-patting by ruling dispensation at the Centre. But many economists have raised doubt and distrust over the veracity of GDP growth. HSBC India and ICICI Securities Primary Dealership cautioned that GDP growth may be overstated due to low deflators, especially in services and manufacturing. Critics also point to perceived inconsistency and statistical sleights of hand. However, on September 10, TCA Ananta, Chief Statistician of India, contradicted the allegations and said that talk of statistical mysteries should not distract us.