On Monday, India’s factory activity expanded rapidly in four months in April, determined by solid development in new orders and output, indicating resilient demand and an encouraging outlook.

The survey results recommend that India continue as the fastest-growing major economy despite decelerating global growth that has undermined momentum across numerous other countries.

The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index accumulated by S&P Global augmented to 57.2 last month compared to March’s 56.4, enduring above the 50-mark separating growth for a 22nd month and mystifying expectations in a Reuters poll for a fall to 55.8.

“Reflecting a strong and earlier expansion in new orders, production growth rose in April. Companies also helped from relatively mild price burdens, healthier international sales, and improving supply-chain circumstances,” Pollyanna De Lima, economics associate director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said.

He added that, like Indian manufacturers have plentiful opportunities to keep driving ahead. Besides witnessing the stoutest inflow of new work in 2023, and capacities were prolonged through job creation, input buying was raised.

New orders and output developed at their fastest pace since December and assisted firms in resuming hiring during April, ensuing the first decline after 13 months in March.

Foreign demand also extended faster after four months in April, and optimism enhanced.

The survey displayed that input costs rose faster in April. Improving demand meant firms could pass on the burden to customers. It has been suggested that retail inflation is unlikely to slow considerably anytime soon.

Reuter’s poll found that inflation was anticipated to average 5.3% this fiscal year and 5% next fiscal year, outstanding well above the Reserve Bank of India’s 4% medium-term target.