Purchasing Managers Index
Context
India’s Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) has fallen to a seven-month low of 55.4 from 57.5 in February.
Background
The index reflects the slowdown in the manufacturing sector that has escalated post the surge in new covid cases.
Details
- The results indicated that the slowdown emerged from COVID-19 restrictions related to workforces.
- The rate of contraction was average but it was quickest since September 2020. It also showed loss of jobs in the sector.
- The rate of inflation was one of the strongest in recent years due to rise in prices of chemical, metal, plastic, rubber and textile.
Indication of index
- Though PMI has slowed, it has remained in acceptable limits. The further lockdown measures could impact activity.
- The prediction that vaccination programme would control the disease and enhance output growth will act as a positive confidence building measure.
Purchasing Managers Index
- Purchasing Managers Index shows the direction of economic trends in the manufacturing and service sectors of the economy.
- It includes a diffusion index that indicates whether market conditions are expanding, staying the same, or contracting.
- The aim of the PMI is to give information about current and future business conditions to company decision makers, analysts, and investors.
Source: Livemint