Eight core industries grow 0.5% in May 2026; coal output falls 9.3%
The Index of Eight Core Industries, released on 22 June 2026, rose 0.5% (provisional) in May 2026 over May 2025, with steel, cement and electricity growing.
Summary
The combined Index of Eight Core Industries rose 0.5% (provisional) in May 2026 compared with May 2025, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on 22 June 2026. Steel, cement and electricity recorded positive growth, while coal production fell 9.3%, crude oil 4.6% and natural gas 4.9%. The Index of Eight Core Industries has a base year of 2011-12, and the eight industries make up 40.27% of the weight of items in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). Cumulative growth for April–May 2026-27 was 1.1%, and April 2026 growth was finalised at 1.8%.
Key facts
- May 2026 growth
- 0.5% (provisional)
- Positive
- Steel, cement, electricity
- Coal / crude / gas
- -9.3% / -4.6% / -4.9%
- Base year
- 2011-12
- Weight in IIP
- 40.27%
- April–May 2026-27
- 1.1%
- April 2026 (final)
- 1.8%
Practice MCQs 3 questions
By how much did the combined Index of Eight Core Industries grow in May 2026 (provisional), as released on 22 June 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — 0.5%
The ICI rose 0.5% (provisional) in May 2026; 1.8% is the final April 2026 figure and 1.1% the April–May cumulative growth.
The eight core industries together account for what share of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP)?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — 40.27%
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry states that the Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27% of the weight of items in the IIP; the ICI base year is 2011-12.
Which of the following core industries recorded positive growth in May 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Steel, cement and electricity
Steel, cement and electricity recorded positive growth in May 2026; coal, crude oil and natural gas declined.