India's strong private sector expansion (AI-generated image)India's private sector continued to show solid growth in September, but the pace slowed compared to August's peak, as a dip in demand impacted new orders and job creation, according to a recent survey, reported the news agency Reuters. The manufacturing PMI slipped to 58.5 from 59.3, while the services activity index decreased to 61.6 from 62.9. Companies are hopeful that demand will remain strong and expect a boost from recent cuts to the goods and services tax (GST). These tax reductions, effective from Monday, aim to stimulate consumer spending ahead of the festive season. However, exporters remain cautious, as they anticipate the full effects of rising US tariffs this month, which could further slow private sector growth.