Reasons for Low Sex Ratio of Child Population in India
The child sex ratio in India has been a cause of concern, especially in some states where the number of girls per 1,000 boys is alarmingly low. The 2011 Census recorded a child sex ratio (0-6 years) of 919 girls for every 1,000 boys, indicating deep-rooted gender bias. Here are the major reasons behind this trend:
1. Preference for Sons
Indian society has historically preferred male children for reasons including lineage continuation, economic support, and performing religious rites. This cultural bias often leads families to desire male over female children.
2. Female Foeticide
Despite being illegal under the PCPNDT Act, the misuse of prenatal diagnostic techniques to identify and abort female fetuses continues in some regions, especially among educated and urban populations.
3. Gender Discrimination
Girls are often seen as financial burdens due to dowry, marriage expenses, and lesser perceived economic return. This perception contributes to families neglecting or rejecting the birth of a girl child.
4. Lack of Awareness and Enforcement
Although laws exist, poor enforcement, corruption, and lack of awareness among healthcare providers and the public make it easy to bypass regulations against sex-selective abortions.
5. Socio-Economic Factors
Poverty and lack of access to education further amplify gender inequality. In some families, limited resources are directed toward sons, while daughters face neglect from birth.
6. Weak Political and Social Will
Until recent times, there was inadequate focus from policymakers and civil society to combat the declining sex ratio. Gender sensitivity is still not a mainstream issue in many areas.
Conclusion
The low child sex ratio is not just a statistical problem but a reflection of deep-rooted patriarchy and gender inequality. Combating it requires strict enforcement of laws, awareness campaigns, education, and changing societal mindsets to value the girl child equally.