Expenditure on durable goods (such as transport equipment and household appliances) is a useful indicator of economic well-being and living standards of households. Consumption of durable goods is also reflective of the future utility to households (and improved productivity) from the use of such goods. This study compares the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2023–24 with 2011–12 and finds significant advancements in spending on durables goods and ownership of key durable assets. These changes represent shifting priorities and aspirations for consumption among Indian households and improvements in quality of life. Additionally, our analysis focuses on the Bottom 40 (B40) percent of the households by consumption, which have been extensively targeted through programs of the Government of India and state governments. Studying the consumption and ownership trends of these households is an important measure of the effectiveness of welfare policies.
