Index of Eight Core Industries grows 7.9% in September 2026; iron ore leads with 18.4%
The Index of Core Industries (base 2022-23) grew 7.9% year-on-year in September 2026 (provisional), up from 5.9% in August 2026, with iron ore (18.4%) showing the highest growth, as per data released on 21 October 2026.
Summary
The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI), with base year 2022-23, grew by 7.9% in September 2026 (provisional) over September 2025, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on 21 October 2026. Growth in August 2026 was revised up to 5.9% from 4.8%. Iron ore (18.4%), electricity (11.4%), coal (10.7%), refinery products (10.3%), cement (9.8%) and steel (4.9%) grew, while fertilizers, natural gas and crude oil contracted. Cumulative growth for April-September 2026 was 5.1%, against 2.5% a year earlier.
Key facts
- Index
- Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI), base 2022-23
- September 2026 growth
- 7.9% (provisional, y-o-y)
- August 2026 growth
- 5.9% (final; revised from 4.8%)
- Highest growth
- Iron ore 18.4%
- Other gainers
- Electricity 11.4%, coal 10.7%, refinery products 10.3%, cement 9.8%, steel 4.9%
- Negative growth
- Fertilizers, natural gas, crude oil
- April-September 2026
- 5.1% (vs 2.5% a year ago)
- Largest weight
- Electricity (30.932)
- Next release
- 20 November 2026 (October data)
Practice MCQs 3 questions
By how much did the Index of Eight Core Industries grow in September 2026 (provisional, year-on-year)?
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Correct answer: B — 7.9%
Which core industry recorded the highest year-on-year growth in September 2026?
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Correct answer: C — Iron ore
Which of the following core industries saw NEGATIVE growth in September 2026?
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Correct answer: D — Natural gas