Industry ministry data released recently shows that the output of eight infrastructure industries rose at its fastest pace in 15 months in July, raising hopes of a robust industrial performance during the month. The index for eight core sector industries – crude oil, petroleum refinery products, coal, electricity, cement, steel, fertilizers and natural gas rose by 7.8 per cent compared to 5.7 per cent in July last year. July’s core industries performance has been led by steel, electricity and cement, with the three growing at 10 per cent plus.