Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The sex ratio, defined as the number of females per 1000 males, is a crucial demographic indicator reflecting societal equity. India has historically exhibited a preference for male children, leading to skewed sex ratios, particularly in certain states. While the national sex ratio (as per the 2011 Census) is 919 females per 1000 males, significant regional disparities exist. This imbalance is a complex issue influenced by a confluence of socio-cultural norms, economic factors, and advancements in technology, demanding a comprehensive understanding of its determinants.
Socio-Cultural Factors
These are arguably the most significant drivers of skewed sex ratios in India.
- Patriarchal Mindset: Deep-rooted societal preference for sons, stemming from factors like inheritance laws, carrying forward the family lineage, and performing last rites.
- Dowry System: The practice of dowry, prevalent in many parts of India, increases the economic burden associated with daughters, leading to son preference.
- Low Status of Women: Limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women contributes to their lower social status and reinforces son preference.
- Son Meta-Preference: Not just preference *for* sons, but a preference for having sons *until* a son is born, as observed in some regions.
Economic Factors
Economic conditions play a crucial role in shaping sex ratios.
- Agricultural Dependence: In agrarian societies, sons are often seen as essential for agricultural labor and income generation, increasing their value.
- Poverty and Economic Insecurity: Families facing economic hardship may prioritize sons, believing they will contribute more to household income.
- Access to Resources: Unequal access to resources like education and healthcare for girls exacerbates the preference for sons.
Technological Factors
While technology can be used for positive change, it has also contributed to the problem.
- Sex-Selective Abortion: The availability of prenatal sex determination techniques (despite being legally prohibited under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994) has led to sex-selective abortions, significantly impacting sex ratios.
- Accessibility of Ultrasound Clinics: The proliferation of ultrasound clinics, particularly in states with already skewed sex ratios, facilitates illegal sex determination.
Regional Variations
Sex ratios vary significantly across states.
| State | Sex Ratio (2011 Census) |
|---|---|
| Kerala | 1084 |
| Puducherry | 1056 |
| Haryana | 898 |
| Rajasthan | 928 |
States like Kerala and Puducherry have relatively higher sex ratios due to better socio-economic indicators and greater female empowerment, while Haryana and Rajasthan exhibit lower ratios due to strong patriarchal norms and economic factors.
Conclusion
The distribution of sex ratio in India is a complex interplay of deeply ingrained socio-cultural norms, economic realities, and the misuse of technology. Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach encompassing stricter enforcement of the PCPNDT Act, promoting female education and economic empowerment, challenging patriarchal mindsets through awareness campaigns, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all. Sustained efforts are crucial to achieve a more equitable and balanced demographic profile for India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.