RBI Launches OBICUS Round 74 to Gauge Manufacturing Health and Capacity Utilization in Q1 FY2026-27
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated the 74th round of its Order Books, Inventories and Capacity Utilisation Survey (OBICUS). This comprehensive survey is designed to provide a granular snapshot of the manufacturing sector's performance during the first quarter of the fiscal year. The reference period covered by this monitoring initiative is April to June 2026 (Q1:2026-27).Scope and Purpose of the OBICUS Survey
The RBI has been conducting the Order Books, Inventories and Capacity Utilisation Survey on a quarterly basis since 2008. This ongoing series aims to collect essential quantitative data points regarding the state of industrial production. The information gathered is crucial input for sound monetary policy formulation by the central bank.The survey delves into several key metrics reflecting industry activity. These include tracking new orders received during the quarter and the backlog of existing orders at the beginning of the period. It also monitors pending orders both at the end of the reporting quarter.
Manufacturing Sector Metrics Monitored
OBICUS provides a detailed analysis of inventory movements across manufacturing firms. The survey tracks total inventories, providing a specific breakdown between finished goods (FG), raw material (RM), and work-in-progress (WiP) stock levels. This focus on inventory health offers insight into the flow of goods through the production chain.Furthermore, the survey assesses item-wise production in both quantity and value terms. This output is measured against the installed capacity available within targeted manufacturing groups. The questionnaire also seeks reasons behind any changes observed in either production or installed capacity during the quarter.
How Companies Can Participate in the Survey
The RBI is actively approaching selected manufacturing companies for participation in this round of OBICUS. However, other companies interested in contributing to this crucial economic assessment can download the survey questionnaire from the Reserve Bank's official website.The detailed instructions and the survey instrument are available under the 'Forms' section on the RBI website. Firms that complete the duly authenticated survey schedule must email it using the contact details provided in the document.
Data Confidentiality and Contact Information
The Reserve Bank of India emphasizes that all company-level data collected through OBICUS is treated with strict confidentiality and will never be disclosed publicly. This commitment ensures firms can participate candidly, contributing to a comprehensive national economic picture.For any queries or necessary clarifications regarding the survey, interested parties should contact the Director, Division of Enterprise Surveys at the RBI's Department of Statistics and Information Management in Mumbai.
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