Question

“Sex ratio in India has been generally declining since 1901.” Critically examine the above statement and give three reasons for the declining trend.

Answer 1

In 1901, the sex ratio in India was 972 females per 1,000 males. This gradually declined over the decades, reaching 927 in 1991, and slightly improving to 940 in 2011. Despite this improvement, the overall trend from 1901 till today shows a consistent decline. This indicates a preference for males in Indian society, which affects the natural balance of the population.

Three Main Reasons for the Declining Sex Ratio:

1. Preference for Male Children: In many parts of India, sons are preferred over daughters for religious, social, and economic reasons. Sons are considered caretakers of parents in old age, while daughters are often seen as a financial burden due to dowry. This mindset leads to the neglect of girl children and even female foeticide.
2. Prenatal Sex Determination and Female Foeticide: With the advancement of medical technology, especially ultrasound, people started identifying the sex of the unborn child. In cases where the foetus was female, abortions were carried out. Although this is illegal under the PCPNDT Act, such practices are still found in many regions, especially in urban and educated families.
3. Poor Health and Neglect of Girl Children: Girl children often receive less medical care, nutrition, and education than boys. This leads to higher mortality rates among girls, especially in rural and economically weaker sections of society. As a result, fewer girls survive to adulthood, reducing the sex ratio further.