But here’s the hidden story: people feel worse. BCG’s latest report shows India’s economy is active… but not happy. Industrial output up? Yes. Consumer confidence down? Also yes. Why? Because prices are climbing, jobs are shrinking, and the relief from GST cuts or new cars isn’t reaching wallets. Even with UPI hitting record highs, households are tightening belts. The real challenge isn’t growth; it’s whether that growth actually lifts people’s lives. For exam aspirants watching this space: look beyond GDP. Real-world economics lives in inflation charts, job reports, and rural sentiment; not just stock market highs. This is the economy you’ll be governing, policymaking, or analyzing. Know it inside out.