New Delhi, Dec. 15 -- India's trade deficit narrowed sharply in November as imports fell and exports rose, offering relief on the external balance after a sharp widening in October.

The gap between imports and exports eased to $24.53 billion in November, the commerce ministry data showed on Monday. This marks a substantial improvement from October's deficit of $41.68 billion.

Merchandise imports stood at $62.66 billion in November, while exports were at $38.13 billion. The trade gap contracted month-on-month on lower imports, suggesting easing pressure from commodities and discretionary inbound shipments.

The November numbers point to a correction after the spike seen in October, when imports had surged to $76.06 billion against export...