Core sectors' growth hits over 1-year high of 6.8% in November

Eight core sectors expanded at the fastest pace in more than a year at 6 point 8 percent in November 2017 on account of robust performance in segments like refinery, steel and cement. 

According to the data released by the Commerce and Industry Ministry, the output of refinery products rose by 8.2 percent, steel - 16.6 percent and cement - 17.3 percent on an annual basis in November. 

Crude oil and natural gas output too registered a positive growth. Coal output growth rate, however,



recorded a negative growth during the month under review.The output growth is the highest since October 2016, when these core sectors, also including fertilisers and electricity, had witnessed a 7.1 percent rise.

Commenting on the data, Economic Affairs Secretary SC Garg described the rise as an impressive growth. He said in a tweet that Steel and Cement growth indicates restoration of the production in these sectors over pre-demonetisation levels. He said it augurs well for real sector investment.