Factors Influencing Life Expectancy Among Informal Workers in Assam: A Quantile Regression Approach

Life expectancy, an important indicator of human welfare and a core component of the Human Development Index (HDI), has improved globally with advancements in living conditions and healthcare. However, informal workers, often excluded from formal social protection systems, remain vulnerable to health risks, which adversely affect their longevity. This study estimates the life expectancy of informal workers in Assam and examines the socio-economic and health-related factors influencing their survival. The analysis is primarily based on primary data, supported by secondary sources for reviewing existing literature. Primary data were collected through a structured interview schedule administered to 600 informal workers (500 rural and 100 urban) across three districts of Assam, namely Dhemaji, Sonitpur and Dhubri, representing better, moderate and poor health performance regions, respectively. The analysis incorporated seven independent variables: healthcare expenditure, social determinants, medical care, consumption habits, medical history, income and environmental factors. The findings revealed a life expectancy of 67.78 years for informal workers in the study area, which is lower than the national average but comparable to the state average. Significant variations were observed across socio-economic groups, gender and rural–urban areas. Using quantile regression, it was found that healthcare utilisation, per capita income and health habits significantly influence life expectancy. Improved healthcare access and higher income levels positively impact longevity, while unhealthy behaviours and chronic diseases reduce it. The study highlights the crucial role of medical care, consumption habits and income in determining life expectancy. It recommends policy interventions aimed at improving healthcare access, promoting healthy behaviours and reducing income disparities among informal workers in Assam.