Index of Core Industries grows 4.8% in August 2026; cement and electricity lead
On 21 September 2026, the Commerce Ministry released provisional data showing the Index of Core Industries (base 2022-23) grew 4.8% year-on-year in August 2026, slightly below July's 5.0%.
Summary
The Index of Core Industries for August 2026 showed cement (12.5%), electricity (11.6%), iron ore (5.5%), steel (3.4%) and refinery products (2.6%) growing, while coal, natural gas, crude oil and fertilizers contracted. Iron ore, electricity and cement have been the main drivers of core growth in recent months. Cumulative growth for April–August 2026 was 4.3%, against 2.4% a year earlier.
Key facts
- August 2026 growth
- 4.8% (provisional); July 2026 final: 5.0%
- Base year
- 2022-23
- Top gainers
- Cement 12.5%, electricity 11.6%, iron ore 5.5%, steel 3.4%, refinery products 2.6%
- Contracted
- Coal, natural gas, crude oil, fertilizers
- April–August 2026
- 4.3% vs 2.4% a year earlier
Practice MCQs 4 questions
What was the provisional year-on-year growth of the Index of Core Industries in August 2026?
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Correct answer: D — 4.8%
The ICI grew 4.8% in August 2026, slightly below July's final 5.0%.
Which core sector recorded the highest year-on-year growth in August 2026?
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Correct answer: B — Cement
Cement grew 12.5%, ahead of electricity (11.6%), iron ore (5.5%) and steel (3.4%).
What is the base year of the Index of Core Industries whose August 2026 estimates were released on 21 September 2026?
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Correct answer: D — 2022-23
The ICI now uses 2022-23 as its base year.
Consider the following about the Index of Core Industries for August 2026: 1. Coal and crude oil recorded negative growth. 2. Cumulative growth for April–August 2026 was lower than in the same period of the previous year. Which of the above is/are correct?
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Correct answer: A — 1 only
Coal, natural gas, crude oil and fertilizers contracted, so statement 1 is correct. Cumulative April–August growth was 4.3%, higher than 2.4% a year earlier, so statement 2 is wrong.