In the sector-wise performance of the eight core industries, which sector recorded moderated growth of 3.1 percentcompared with 4.6 percent in the previous year?

Among the eight core infrastructure sectors, coal recorded moderated growth of 3.1 percent, compared with 4.6 percent growth in the previous year. Coal is a critical energy input for power generation and industrial activities such as steel and cement production. The moderation in coal sector growth indicates weakening demand or supply constraints affecting energy availability for industrial processes. The slowdown in coal production also contributes to overall moderation in core sector growth. Since energy sectors such as coal, crude oil and natural gas play a crucial role in industrial output, their performance directly influences industrial production and economic momentum.