Correct option is C
In 2017, India's exports were led by Engineering goods, which contributed significantly to the country's total export basket. Engineering goods include products like machinery, transport equipment, electrical machinery, and iron and steel, among others. These goods saw a steady demand in global markets due to their relatively higher value-added nature and the increasing competitiveness of Indian manufacturers in these sectors.
Some of the key reasons for the rise of engineering goods exports were:
Increased global demand for automobiles and machinery: Indian companies, especially in the automobile and auto-component sectors, made substantial inroads into global markets.
Government incentives: Various government schemes such as the Make in India initiative and the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) encouraged the production and export of engineering goods.
Diversification of markets: Indian manufacturers expanded their market base to regions like Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.