India’s manufacturing activity recovered the lost ground lost in February, picking up to its highest in eight months, at 58.1 in March as against 56.3 in the previous month, data released by S&P Global on Wednesday showed. The latest reading showed a substantial improvement in the health of the sector that was above its long-run average. Per the release, the rise was driven by stronger new orders growth as the new orders index recorded an eight-month high of 61.5. March saw total sales expand to the greatest extent since July 2024, with companies remarking on positive customer interest, favourable demand conditions and successful marketing initiatives.