Is the Indian Economy Set to Remain the Fastest-Growing Major Economy in FY26?

Synopsis
The Indian economy is on track to maintain its position as the fastest-growing major economy in FY26, driven by strong fundamentals and a commitment to sustainable growth. Discover how various sectors contribute to this optimistic outlook in the latest SBI report.
Key Takeaways
- India's economy is projected to maintain the fastest growth rate in FY26.
- GDP growth in Q4 FY25 was driven by robust capital formation.
- Private consumption showed healthy growth despite slight slowdowns.
- Export growth was strong while imports saw a contraction.
- External factors remain a concern for future growth.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) The Indian economy is set to retain its status as the fastest-growing major economy in FY26, bolstered by its solid macroeconomic foundations, a resilient financial sector, and a dedication to sustainable growth, as indicated in a report by the State Bank of India (SBI).
According to Dr. Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Group Chief Economic Adviser at SBI, increased savings projected in the latest RBI annual report will ensure that domestic finances are adequate to support the expected growth, and "we do not foresee demand-induced pressures on prices in FY26."
However, Ghosh pointed out that growth could be affected by external and geopolitical challenges.
On the expenditure side, the GDP growth of 7.4% in Q4 was driven by a significant rise in capital formation, which experienced an annual growth of 9.4%.
This increase in capital formation was attributed to a recovery in the core sector during Q4, as shown by high-frequency indicators. The total capital formation growth for FY25 now stands at 7.1%.
India's economy expanded by 7.4% in Q4 FY25, compared to an 8.4% growth in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. Based on the Q4 performance, the annual growth for FY25 is estimated at 6.5%.
Most sectors showed improved growth figures in Q4 FY25, with industry growing by 6.5% and the services sector increasing by 7.3%. The construction sector within industry surged by an impressive 10.8% (the highest in six quarters), while manufacturing climbed by 4.8%.
Private consumption continued its strong performance in Q4, despite a slight slowdown in growth. Overall, private consumption recorded a growth of 7.2% for FY25.
Export demand remained robust throughout the year, achieving a growth of 6.3%, while imports saw a contraction of 3.7% for the entire year.
The SBI report noted that this growth was accelerated by export initiatives amidst uncertainties regarding US tariffs. The most significant drop in imports occurred in Q4, with a contraction of 12.7%, contributing to an overall GDP growth of 7.2% in Q4.