UN-DESA Projects India’s GDP Growth at 6.6% for 2026: Key Highlights of WESP 2026 Report

In January 2026, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA) released its flagship report titled “World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2026”. The report has projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% in calendar year (CY) 2026, making India the fastest-growing major economy despite global uncertainties. The projection is slightly lower than India’s estimated 7.4% growth for 2025, while growth is forecast to improve marginally to 6.7% in 2027.

Report Details (For Exams)

• What: UN-DESA projected India’s GDP growth at 6.6% in 2026 and 6.7% in 2027
• Report Name: World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2026
• India’s Status: Expected to remain the fastest-growing major economy

Why India’s Growth Remains Strong

According to the report, India’s strong performance will be supported mainly by:

• Resilient household consumption
• Strong public investment
• Support from tax reforms and monetary easing

These factors are expected to help India manage global challenges such as trade tensions and policy uncertainty.

Global Growth Outlook (2026)

UN-DESA has projected that the global economy may grow slower in 2026:

• Global growth (2026): 2.7%
• 2025 estimate: 2.8%
• 2027 projection: 2.9%

This shows that the world economy is still growing, but at a moderate pace due to global instability and trade-related concerns.

Global Trade Projection

The report also warns about weakening global trade momentum:

• Global trade growth (2026): 2.2%
• Global trade growth (2025): 3.8%

This is important because slower global trade can impact exports and international business.

Inflation Forecast for India

• India’s inflation forecast (2025): 4.1%

This suggests inflation is expected to remain relatively controlled, supporting overall economic stability.

IMF Comparison

• UN projections align closely with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) view that:
• India may remain the only major economy growing above 6% during 2025–26.

About UN-DESA (Static GK)

• Full Name: United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA)
• Under-Secretary-General: Li Junhua
• Headquarters: New York, USA
• Established: 1948