Industrial output expands at 7.1%; March retail inflation eases to 4.28%

Within the IIP, manufacturing grew by 8.7 per cent in February, marginally higher than 8.6 per cent in January

The macroeconomic scenario for the country looks favourable for now, with industrial output continuing its healthy expansion, albeit at a slightly lower pace, and retail inflation moderating further. However, there are also some bleak signs, such as a contraction in mining in February and a rise in core inflation in March. Besides, oil prices and minimum support prices may lead to a spike in inflation in coming months. 

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew at 7.1 per cent in February, driven by strong manufacturing growth, as against 7.4 per cent in January. This is the fourth straight month when