India’s Core Sector Growth Stands at 2.3% in February 2026: What Numbers Are Saying?

For the month of February 2026 India’s Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) recorded a growth of 2.3%. The growth is equal compare last month last year. The growth was driven by the strong performance in steel, cement, fertilizers, coal and electricity sectors. On the other side it declines outcome in crude oil, natural gas and refinery output limited overall expansion.

ICI Growth Performance February 2026

Nearly 2.3% of growth in February 2026 shows the moderate expansion compared to 4.7% growth which was recorded in January 2026.

This trend is indicate to some slowdown in industrial momentum because of several reasons.

Despite the cumulative growth from April to February 2025-26 stands at 2.9% it is reflecting steady but controlled expansion.

This numbers are suggesting that certain sectors are performing well but others are facing challenges.

Sector-Wise Performance: Steel and Cement Drive Growth

The strongest growth was recorded in infrastructure-related sectors.

Steel production increased by 7.2% while cement output rise sharply by 9.3% and it is indicating the strong demand from related sectors.

Also the Fertilizers grew by 3.4%, coal by 2.3% and the electricity by 0.5% they are contributing positively to the overall index.

Declining Sectors: Oil and Gas Weigh on Growth

On the other side other sectors performance is declining and it affect to the overall growth rate.

Crude oil production fell to 5.2%, natural gas by 5.0% and petroleum refinery products by 1.0%.

These declines point to structural challenges in the on going geopolitical scenario, energy sector and demand fluctuations.

What is Index of Core Industries (ICI)

It measures the performance of eight key sectors that are the backbone of India’s industrial economy.

These sectors includes like coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilizers, steel, cement and electricity.

They carry a significant percentage of 40.27% in the IIP and their performance directly impacts overall industrial growth and economy.

The ICI acts as an early indicator of economic activity which will helping policymakers and analysts understand what needs to do.

Question

Q. What is the weight of the Index of Eight Core Industries in the IIP?

A. 30%
B. 35%
C. 40.27%
D. 50%