New Delhi, April 2 -- India's Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose to 58.1 in March 2025, up from 56.3 in February, according to data released by HSBC and compiled by S&P Global on Wednesday.

The increase was driven by stronger growth in new orders, as the New Orders Index reached its highest level in eight months.

This improvement was attributed to rising customer interest, favourable demand conditions, and effective marketing efforts.

Pranjul Bhandari, Chief India Economist, HSBC, noted that while international orders saw a slight slowdown, overall demand momentum remained strong.

The new orders index reached an eight-month high of 61.5, prompting firms to utilise their inventories at the fastest pace in over three ye...