Full-year GDP contraction may be less than 9%: Niti Aayog vice chairman

In a Q&A, Rajiv Kumar says GDP growth could be a small negative in Q3, positive in Q4, even as he calls for more measure to spur private investment

Niti Aayog vice chairman Rajiv Kumar tells Indivjal Dhasmana that GDP growth is likely to be a small negative in the third quarter and positive in the fourth quarter of the current financial year. He says the full year is likely to show contraction at less rate than the generally expected nine per cent. He also talks about farmers protests, manufacturing, consumer demand, fiscal deficit among other things. Edited excerpts: 

After Q2 GDP data, you have termed the speed of recovery a pleasant surprise. Eill it sustain in the second half?

I think so. The third quarter is likely to