Exploring the Status of Life Expectancy at Birth in Indian States and the Evolving Health Perspectives for well-being

ABSTRACT

The present study aims to assess the life expectancy at birth (LEB) of the fifteen major states in India and verify for the regional disparity in LEB over the study period. An analysis of secondary data on LEB is performed. The coefficient of variation (CV) of LEB across states is estimated to examine sigma-convergence and absolute convergence is assessed by means of ordinary least square (OLS) technique. Gini Coefficient is also used to measure the change in regional inequality in LEB over the time period. A technique of estimating divergence reduction is employed to assess the accomplishment of states on the LEB indicator. The sigma and absolute convergence estimation reveals that India is experiencing continuous gains in life expectancy and regional divide in LEB has reduced over the years. But a regional gap still remains. A variation in life expectancy is mostly caused by differences in the social determinants of health viz. potable water, medical care, sanitation, hygiene. The states which are aiming at improving LEB should focus on non-clinical measures as well to enhance the life span of individuals and also to reduce the burden on health infrastructure. The health policy design and implementation should also be designed in creating health rather than purely focused on curing illness. A pandemic like the coronavirus disease (COVID -19) has urged a new way of looking at health;beyond pharmaceutical measures. Social, meditative and technology based intervention can help in improving the life expectancy and other health indicators.