India Inc's Growth Hits 3-Year Low Amid War-Driven Cost Surge

• India's private sector growth slowed to a 3-year low in March due to escalating conflict in West Asia and rising input costs.
• The HSBC flash India Composite PMI fell to 56.5, marking the sharpest loss of momentum in 18 months.
• Manufacturing activity saw its PMI slide to a 4-1/2-year low, while the services sector also lost steam.
• Input costs, including oil and energy, rose at the fastest pace since June 2022, leading firms to raise selling prices.
• Despite domestic slowdown, export orders surged to a record high, and business confidence improved, leading to increased hiring.