Business
Private Sector Growth Slows in March, Resulting in Decline in Business Expansion
“Manufacturing was the standout sector in March, showing gains in sales and output that outpaced those in the service economy,” the survey remarked.
The S&P Global index dipped to 58.6 in March from February’s final reading of 58.8. This index tracks the monthly changes in the overall output from both manufacturing and service sectors in India, maintaining a reading above the neutral 50-mark—indicating growth—now for the 44th consecutive month.
The survey noted, “India’s private sector concluded FY25 on a solid note, reflecting healthy increases in new business and output. While growth rates moderated since February, they remained significantly above long-term averages.”
In terms of the manufacturing sector, the flash PMI—a composite indicator that encompasses new orders, output, employment, supplier delivery times, and inventory levels—indicated improved operating conditions consistent with FY25 averages.
Pranjul Bhandari, HSBC’s Chief India Economist, commented that the flash PMI indicates India’s manufacturing sector expanded at a quicker pace in March, with the output index reaching its highest since July 2024. “However, manufacturers are facing tighter profit margins as input price inflation rose, while factory gate prices increased at the slowest pace in a year. Additionally, the growth in new export orders slowed notably amid tariff announcements,” she explained.
The survey highlighted that private sector firms primarily attributed the output increase to favorable demand trends, with new orders continuing to rise, extending the growth streak to over three-and-a-half years.
Concerning employment, the survey noted that although job creation slowed to a six-month low, the overall pace remained strong by historical standards. “For the first time in seven months, manufacturers reported a faster increase in hiring compared to service providers,” the survey added.
New Delhi: The price of domestic LPG cooking gas cylinders has been increased by Rs 29 across India. This is the second price hike in the last three months.
The increase comes as global energy prices continue to rise due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
After the revision, a domestic LPG cylinder now costs Rs 942 in Delhi, Rs 941.40 in Mumbai, Rs 968 in Kolkata, and Rs 957.50 in Chennai. In Bengaluru, the new price is Rs 944.50 per cylinder.
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The government said the cost of supplying LPG has increased significantly. However, subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana continue to help over 10 crore beneficiaries.
Petrol, diesel, and CNG prices have also increased in recent weeks as global fuel markets remain volatile.
Business: Honda Cars India has started delivering the new 2026 Honda City Hybrid to customers. The first car was handed over at a dealership in Bengaluru.
Honda President and CEO Takashi Nakajima attended the special delivery event. Other senior company officials were also present.
The first customer received a Crystal Black Pearl Honda City Hybrid. The car was delivered with a symbolic key and a gift hamper.
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The updated City comes with new features such as ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera. It also offers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a sunroof.
The sedan is available with petrol and strong-hybrid powertrain options. Honda claims the hybrid version delivers a mileage of 27.26 kmpl.
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The Honda City competes with the Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Hyundai Verna in India.
Business : Indian companies borrowed $5.43 billion from abroad in March, according to RBI data. This was 51% lower than March last year.
Experts said the weak rupee and high global interest rates made foreign loans less attractive for companies.
In the financial year 2025-26, India Inc raised nearly $43 billion through foreign borrowings. This was down from $61 billion in the previous year.
In March 2025, borrowings had crossed $11 billion due to large deals by companies like JSW Steel and Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing.
Companies are also avoiding overseas loans because hedging costs have become expensive during currency volatility.
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The RBI reportedly discussed easing foreign borrowing rules and offering hedging support, but no final decision was taken.
Market experts said the ongoing West Asia conflict has increased uncertainty, making companies cautious about raising funds from abroad.
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