The Indian economy is navigating a transformative phase as it adapts to shifting dynamics, according to an HSBC Global Research report. Despite a slight cooling in economic sentiment, Indian economy growth trends reveal resilience and long-term potential, driven by promising sectors and steady government investments.
A Moderate Yet Positive Growth Phase
The report analyzes 100 key growth indicators, showing that while 55% of the Indian economy continues to expand, this marks a decline from 65% in the previous quarter. This moderation reflects a balancing act after a period of rapid stock market gains and stellar GDP growth. Nevertheless, the majority of economic indicators remain positive, underlining the economy’s enduring strength.
Sectoral Resilience and Promising Outlook
Certain sectors stand out for their performance and future promise. Agriculture, contributing 15% to GDP, is witnessing a recovery, with 60% of its indicators trending positively. Improved monsoon conditions and replenished reservoirs are driving this rebound. The report forecasts further growth in agriculture barring any unexpected disruptions.
Government spending on capital and current expenditures is another significant growth driver. Investments in infrastructure projects and robust credit support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are bolstering industrial activity. Aided by India’s advanced digital public infrastructure, access to credit has expanded, particularly benefiting SMEs.
Consumption Slowdown and Sectoral Adjustments
Despite these positive signs, the report highlights a slowdown in consumer activity. Both rural and urban consumption have shown sluggish trends, with consumer loans, especially unsecured ones, declining due to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) regulatory measures to curb excess borrowing.
Manufacturing output for consumer goods has dipped, though construction-related goods remain steady, supported by ongoing real estate and infrastructure projects. Mining and utilities sectors have faced significant contractions, primarily due to normalized weather reducing electricity demand after an intense heatwave earlier this year.
Evolving Export Patterns and Industry Performance
India’s export basket is diversifying, with professional services emerging as a growth area. This diversification is helping mitigate challenges in traditional export sectors. Electronics manufacturing, digital startups, and Global Capability Centres, which had seen extraordinary growth in recent years, are now stabilizing to more sustainable levels.
Tourism Thrives Amidst Trade and Transport Challenges
While trade and transport lag behind in recovery, tourism has surged, fueled by pent-up travel demand. The sector is benefiting from increased domestic and international travel, contributing positively to the service economy.
Toward Sustainable Growth
The report emphasizes that overall GDP growth is stabilizing from over 7% to a sustainable 6.5%, marking a shift toward potential growth levels. This moderation, coupled with equitable sectoral contributions, could pave the way for more balanced economic development.
Also Read:Kumutha Raman: The First Non-Muslim Voice in PAS Politics