Changes in Subjective Well-Being in India

Abstract Despite the growing literature on subjective well-being (SWB), few studies have focused developing countries. Applying robust OLS and ordered probit models to India Human Development Survey panel data in 2005 2012, we empirically assess SWB changes 2005–2012, based a self-reported measure of economic well-being, as function household state covariates 2005. This is sharp contrast with earlier studies’ focus levels SWB. Another point departure our study compare those objective (OWB) changes, proxied by relative growth real per capita consumption expenditure between identify specific micro-level correlates changes. Households an older educated head larger household, located urban areas or affluent states tend experience improvement both OWB 2012. In contrast, households female head, more male members labour market, regular access mass media, without suffering from non-communicable diseases disabilities are likely be better off subjectively experiencing corresponding OWB. The policy challenges raise serious concerns.