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Retailers Association of India (RAI) in its latest business survey has showed that retail business in India grew 10 percent in February 2022 compared to the sales level in the same month last year, signaling that the sector is inching towards normalcy. The rise witnessed last month marks a growth of 6 percent compared to February 2020. 

The industry body said retail businesses across regions have indicated growth in February 2022, with sales in West India growing 16 percent against the same month last year. East India saw a growth of 4 percent against the year-ago month, while North India grew 17 percent as compared to February last year. Similarly, South India also witnessed a growth of 4 percent against February last year.

RAI said most categories are now indicating growth in business generated in February 2022 as compared to the previous two years. Categories such as consumer durables and electronics, food and groceries, and QSR have indicated rapid year-on-year growth of 28 percent, 19 percent, and 16 percent, respectively. Apparels and footwear categories have also indicated double-digit growth with a steady decline in the rate of COVID-19 cases. It said since most states have now lifted restrictions on store timings and retail operations, one can expect some sense of normalcy to return. However, inflation and the war situation in Ukraine will have some impact on business positivity.