India’s Economy Grew 7.8%. So Why Doesn’t It Feel Like It? | Indian Express Special

India’s reported 7.8% GDP growth for the April-June quarter has sparked a national debate over the accuracy of official statistics following a base year revision to 2022-23. While the government defends the data as a reflection of robust investment, manufacturing, and services, critics argue that the new methodology masks lower actual growth. The economy exhibits a "K-shaped" recovery, where high-end consumption and corporate earnings skew the data, leaving the broader middle class struggling with stagnant incomes and inflationary pressures. Despite strong headline figures, structural risks—including volatile oil prices, monsoon deficits, and the potential impact of AI on service exports—threaten long-term stability. Ultimately, the current growth reflects resilience rather than a guaranteed upward trajectory, highlighting the urgent need for greater transparency in economic reporting to bridge the growing trust deficit between the government and the public.