Indian core industries increased by 2% in July compared to the last year

Current Context: On 20 August 2025, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry released data showing that India’s eight core industries grew by 2% in July 2025, compared to 6.3% in July 2024.

• The slowdown was attributed to monsoon-related disruptions, especially in the energy sector.
• Growth was led by steel (↑12.8%), cement (↑11.7%), fertilizer (↑2%), and electricity (↑0.5%).
• Declines were recorded in coal (↓12.3%), crude oil (↓1.3%), natural gas (↓3.2%), and refinery products (↓1%).
• These eight sectors contribute 40.27% to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

Question:

Q.1 According to data released on 20 August 2025, what was the growth rate of India’s eight core industries in July 2025?
a) 6.3%
b) 2%
c) 4.5%
d) 1%

Answer: b) The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported that the eight core industries grew by 2% in July 2025, compared to 6.3% in July 2024.