At 5% in June, core sector grows fastest in 5 mths

India's expanded core sector grew 5% in June 2026, the fastest in five months, up from 1.1% a year ago.

The new core sector index, with base year 2022-23, expands the basket to nine industries by adding iron ore.

Iron ore output surged 43.9% (weight 4.9%), while cement accelerated 9.8% and electricity grew 9.8%.

Fertiliser production fell 3.3%, its fourth straight monthly decline due to West Asia-linked disruptions.

Refinery products (-4.7%), natural gas (-7.4%), and crude oil (-4.2%) continued to contract.