According to the latest survey released by the Ministry of Statistics, household consumption expenditure on goods and services in both rural and urban areas of India has shown a robust increase over the last decade.
Increase in Rural Household Consumption
The survey reveals that the monthly per capita household consumption in rural India jumped by over 40% in 2022-23, after adjusting for inflation, compared to the corresponding figure recorded for 2011-12. In absolute terms, the monthly per capita consumption expenditure in rural areas increased from Rs 1,430 in 2011-12 to Rs 2,008 in 2022-23.
Increase in Urban Household Consumption
Similarly, urban India also recorded a robust gain, with per capita household consumption expenditure rising by 33%. After adjusting for inflation, the per capita consumption expenditure increased from Rs 2,360 in 2011-12 to Rs 3,510 in 2022-23. Without adjusting for inflation, the figures stood at Rs 6,459 for urban households in 2022-23, compared to Rs 2,630 in 2011-12.
Consumption Expenditure Categories
Household consumption expenditure includes spending on various categories such as food, fuel, electricity, medical services, transport, and education. The survey shows that in 2022-23, food accounted for about 46% of the average rural household’s consumption, while urban households allocated about 39% of their monthly per capita consumption to food.
Changing Consumption Patterns
The survey also reveals a change in the consumption pattern in both rural and urban India. There has been a gradual decline in the per capita consumption of cereals such as rice and wheat, while consumption of pulses, milk, vegetables, fruits, eggs, and meat has increased. This change reflects an improvement in the standard of living over the years.
Conclusion
The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey conducted by the Ministry of Statistics indicates a significant increase in household consumption expenditure in both rural and urban areas of India over the last decade. This increase reflects an improvement in the standard of living and well-being of the population. The survey also highlights changing consumption patterns, with a shift towards a more diverse range of food items.