Mfg sector growth hits 10-month high in April

India's manufacturing sector expanded at its fastest pace in 10 months in April, driven by strong demand and a sharp rise in output, a private survey released on Friday said.

- Rhik Kundu

NEW DELHI:

The HSBC India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), compiled by S&P Global, rose to 58.2 in April from 58.1 in March and 56.3 in February. The index was at 57.7 in January and 56.4 in December. A reading above 50 indicates expansion, and below 50 a contraction.

"Growth momentum in the Indian manufacturing industry improved in April, with output increasing at the fastest pace since June 2024 on the back of another strong expansion in order books," the survey said.

"Total sales were supported by the second fastest upturn in international orders since March 2011. This positive trend was accompanied by notable rises in employment and purchasing activity," it added.