New Delhi, September 22 (Daily Kiran) : The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released its Chief Economists Outlook report, projecting India’s GDP growth at 6.7% for the fiscal year 2026-27. This positions India as the country with the strongest growth prospects among major economies. The report highlights robust domestic demand as the primary driver of India’s economic strength.
In its September 2026 report, the WEF evaluated ten major regions, including the United States, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The insights were gathered from 92 chief economists across both public and private sectors.
According to the findings, 74% of economists anticipate strong or very strong economic growth in India, a significant increase from 52% reported in May. Furthermore, 98% of experts believe that India’s growth rate will remain at least moderate or better over the next year.
On the employment front, the report indicates that 70% of economists do not foresee significant changes in the unemployment rate over the next year. Meanwhile, 17% expect an increase in unemployment, while 13% predict a decrease.
Statistics show that the unemployment rate for those aged 15 and older fell from 5.1% in July to 5% in August. During the same period, the labor force participation rate increased from 55.4% to 55.6%.
The report suggests that despite strong economic activities, the labor market remains relatively stable, emphasizing the need to maintain job creation momentum.
Inflation concerns have also eased somewhat. Compared to May, fewer economists are worried about inflation. Currently, 55% expect moderate inflation over the next 12 months, while 45% foresee high inflation. In May, 61% of experts were concerned about high or very high inflation.
In August, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rose to 4.8%, exceeding the Reserve Bank of India’s medium-term target of 4%, yet still within the acceptable range of 2-6%.
Regarding monetary policy, 67% of economists predict no major changes in the next year, while 24% anticipate a tightening of policy. The Reserve Bank of India maintained its policy rate at 5.25% in August, keeping a neutral stance.
Most experts expect stability in fiscal policy as well. About 72% believe there will be no significant changes, while 22% foresee a potential easing of policy.
The report notes that the survey was completed on August 20, prior to the release of first-quarter GDP figures on August 31, which recorded a growth rate of 7.8% for India. Following this strong performance, several global institutions have revised their growth forecasts for India upward.
For instance, Moody’s has increased its GDP growth estimate for India from 6% to 7% for the fiscal year 2026-27, citing the Indian economy’s remarkable resilience despite global challenges like ongoing conflicts in West Asia.
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