The growth trajectory of India's infrastructure sector saw a moderation in March, with the output expanding at a rate of 5.3%. This deceleration, as reported by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), indicates a slowdown from the previous month's robust performance.

Key sectors contributing to this growth moderation include coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilizers, steel, cement, and electricity. While these sectors continue to show positive growth, the pace has slackened compared to earlier months.

Among the sectors, coal output witnessed a significant slowdown, growing at just 0.9% in March compared to a robust 10.3% in the corresponding month last year. Similarly, the growth rate of crude oil production dropped to 2.6% from 9.3% in March 2023. Natural gas production also experienced a decline, expanding at a rate of 8.4% compared to 15.3% a year ago.

The moderation in growth can be attributed to various factors, including supply chain disruptions, rising input costs, and global economic uncertainties. Additionally, the resurgence of COVID-19 cases in certain parts of the country and geopolitical tensions have added to the challenges faced by the infrastructure sector.

Despite the moderation in growth, certain sectors have shown resilience. Refinery products, for instance, maintained a steady growth rate of 8.9% in March, albeit lower than the 14.1% growth recorded in the same period last year. Similarly, steel production continued its upward trajectory, albeit at a slower pace, growing by 8.4% compared to 15.6% in March 2023.

On a positive note, the electricity sector exhibited robust growth, expanding by 7.4% in March, driven by increasing demand and improved availability of fuel. However, the growth rate was lower than the 10.2% recorded in the corresponding month last year.

The moderation in infrastructure sector growth underscores the need for sustained policy support, investment, and structural reforms to stimulate economic activity and boost productivity. Addressing supply chain constraints, enhancing infrastructure investment, and promoting technological innovation are crucial for revitalizing the sector and driving sustainable growth in the long run.