Differences in cognitive ability, per capita income, infant mortality, fertility and latitude across the states of India

•Data are presented for differences in literacy across 33 states of India.•Cognitive ability was positively correlated with GDP, literacy and life expectancy.•Cognitive ability was negatively correlated with infant mortality and fertility.•Cognitive ability was higher in the south in states with a coast line.

Regional differences in cognitive ability are presented for 33 states and union territories of India. Ability was positively correlated with GDP per capita, literacy and life expectancy and negatively correlated with infant and child mortality, fertility and the percentage of Muslims. Ability was higher in the south than in the north and in states with a coast line than with those that were landlocked.