What changed
RBI announced the launch of the 74th round of the OBICUS survey, covering Q1 of 2026‑27. The survey continues the quarterly data collection from manufacturing firms that began in 2008. The release does not mention any changes to the survey methodology or scope.
What it means for you
The survey provides RBI with real‑sector data on capacity utilisation and inventories, which is used as input for monetary‑policy formulation.
What you must do
- Inform your manufacturing clients about the survey and encourage voluntary participation if selected.
- Direct clients to download the questionnaire from RBI's website under 'Forms' > 'Survey'.
- Remind clients that company-level data is confidential and never disclosed by RBI.
- Monitor published OBICUS results for insights into capacity utilisation trends affecting loan demand.
Who it affects
Manufacturing companies (selected and voluntary participants), Banks and financial institutions lending to manufacturing, RBI's monetary policy formulation team
What data does the OBICUS survey collect?
It collects quantitative data on new orders, order backlog, pending orders, inventories (finished goods, work-in-progress, raw materials), item-wise production quantity and value, installed capacity, and reasons for changes in production or capacity.
How can a manufacturing company participate if not selected?
Companies can voluntarily participate by downloading the survey questionnaire from RBI's website under 'Forms' > 'Survey', completing it, and emailing it to the contact details provided in the schedule.
Is the data submitted by companies kept confidential?
Yes, RBI treats company-level data as confidential and never discloses it. Only aggregated survey findings are released publicly.