India's Core Sector Growth Rises 3.7% in December Led by Cement and Steel

India's Index of Eight Core Industries grew 3.7% year-on-year in December 2025, marking a four-month high driven by increased production in cement (13.5%), steel (6.9%), electricity (5.3%), fertilisers (4.1%), and coal (3.6%). However, crude oil, natural gas, and refinery products saw declines. The cumulative growth from April to December 2025-26 stood at 2.6%, lower than the previous year's 4.5%. Month-on-month, all eight sectors showed increased output in December, reflecting a sequential recovery despite slower growth compared to December 2024.