Question

What does the HCES 2022-23 data reveal about household spending patterns, particularly concerning food items?

1. Both urban and rural households are spending a larger proportion of their budget on food items compared to previous surveys.
2. The data indicates a decrease in the share of expenditure on food items for both urban and rural households.
3. This shift in spending suggests a rise in disposable income and a diversification of consumption.
4. The primary spending for non-food items in 2022-23 was on durable goods.

• A. iii only
• B. All
• C. ii, iii
• D. ii only

Answer 1

Answer:

C. ii, iii

• The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23 observed a significant shift in how Indian households allocate their expenditure.

• Both rural and urban families are spending a smaller percentage of their income on food compared to earlier surveys.

• This trend is often interpreted as a positive sign, reflecting increased disposable income that allows households to spend more on non-food items such as education, healthcare, transportation, and consumer durables.

• The survey specifically noted that conveyance and durable goods were major components of non-food expenditure.