What Factors Drove the Surge in Diwali Sales?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Record sales during Diwali reached Rs 5.40 lakh crore.
- 85% of festive sales came from the retail sector.
- Sales of consumer electronics and automobiles rose by 25-30%.
- GST reforms and tax reliefs significantly boosted consumer spending.
- Strong purchasing power was evident from Navratri to Diwali.
New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) This year, India has witnessed an exceptional festive season, with impressive sales in consumer goods, automobiles, jewellery, handicrafts, and decorative items soaring during Diwali. This surge indicates a revival in consumer confidence and economic vitality, as highlighted by economists on Wednesday.
Dr. Manoranjan Sharma, Chief Economist at Infomerics Ratings, emphasized that the increase is indicative of a robust rebound in domestic demand and a rising inclination towards Indian-made products. “There has been a noteworthy increase in the sales of consumer electronics, textiles, jewellery, handicrafts, and decorative items. This surge symbolizes growing consumer optimism that has significantly boosted domestic industries,” he remarked.
Sharma also pointed out that recent GST reforms and income tax relief measures have been instrumental in enhancing festive expenditure. “We anticipated that the Diwali season would have a positive impact on the economy. This year, goods worth nearly Rs 5.40 lakh crore were transacted, with sales in consumer electronics and automobiles increasing by 25–30 percent,” he stated.
Similarly, economist Parambir Kumar Sarkar noted that the GST rate cuts announced in September lowered prices for FMCG, consumer electronics, and leather goods, paving the way for strong festive demand. “The sales data from Navratri to Diwali has been promising, showcasing robust purchasing power among consumers,” he explained.
Experts indicate that around 85 percent of total festive sales originated from the retail sector, with the offline market exhibiting particularly strong growth.
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) reported that total sales during the festive season—from Navratri to Diwali—reached an unprecedented Rs 5.40 lakh crore, marking a 25 percent increase from last year's Rs 4.25 lakh crore. Additionally, consumers utilized services worth approximately Rs 65,000 crore during this timeframe.
Industry analysts are optimistic that this festive surge—driven by reduced taxes and increased disposable incomes—could sustain India's economic growth in the upcoming quarters, providing essential momentum to domestic manufacturing and retail.