External Sector, Statistical Discrepancies and Gross Domestic Product Growth in India : A Constant and Current Price Analysis (2011-12 to 2025-26)

The external sector plays a decisive role in shaping the growth trajectory of an open developing economy like India. Exports, imports, and statistical discrepancies significantly influence the estimation and interpretation of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) under the expenditure approach. This research paper analyzes India’s exports of goods and services, imports of goods and services, discrepancies, and GDP at constant and current prices over the period 2011–12 to 2025–26. Using secondary macroeconomic data, the study applies descriptive statistics, trend analysis, and comparative interpretation supported by detailed statistical tables and graphical trend explanations. The findings reveal a persistent trade deficit driven by faster growth in imports than exports, increasing nominal expansion due to price effects, and fluctuating discrepancies reflecting data reconciliation challenges. GDP growth shows strong nominal expansion alongside moderate real growth, emphasizing the importance of constant-price analysis for accurate economic assessment. The paper concludes that strengthening export competitiveness, managing import dependence, and improving statistical accuracy are essential for sustainable growth. The study adheres strictly to Scopus-indexed journal norms and contributes to empirical literature on India’s external sector dynamics.