EconomyThursday, 1 October 2026·The Hindu - Economy
India manufacturing PMI rises to 55.1 in September 2026, a seven-month high
HSBC India Manufacturing PMI climbed to 55.1 in September 2026, indicating expansion and stronger new orders, output and hiring.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In September 2026, the HSBC India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 55.1, a seven-month high, after standing at 52.8 in August 2026.
Key specifics
- PMI reading: 55.1 in September 2026, above the 50 expansion threshold.
- Monthly rise: 2.3 index points from 52.8 in August 2026.
- Second-quarter average: 53.8, the lowest since Q2 2021-22.
- Export demand: new orders rose faster, with clients in Brazil, Europe, the UAE and the U.S.
- Hiring: manufacturers reported the fastest pace of job creation since May 2026.
Exam lens
Question type: Index interpretation, PMI above 50 means expansion, 55.1 in September 2026, HSBC survey, new orders and output. TNPSC may ask what a PMI above 50 signifies and which sectors drove the rise.