Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The female sex ratio (number of females per 1000 males) in India has historically been a concern, but certain states – Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Gujarat, collectively referred to as DEMARU states – exhibit particularly low ratios. This demographic imbalance is a critical social problem with far-reaching consequences for society. According to the NFHS-5 (2019-21), the sex ratio at birth in Haryana is 892, Punjab 898, Himachal Pradesh 901 and Gujarat 919, significantly below the national average of 952. This alarming trend is rooted in a complex interplay of socio-cultural preferences for sons, coupled with the increased accessibility of sex-selective abortion technologies.
Causes of Low Female Sex Ratio in DEMARU States
1. Socio-Cultural Factors
- Patriarchal Norms: Deeply ingrained patriarchal norms prioritize sons for carrying forward the family lineage, performing last rites, and providing economic security. Daughters are often perceived as an economic burden due to dowry practices.
- Son Preference: This preference is particularly strong in agrarian societies like Punjab and Haryana, where sons are seen as essential for agricultural labor and inheritance.
- Dowry System: The prevalence of the dowry system increases the financial burden associated with daughters, further reinforcing son preference.
- Low Status of Women: Limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women contributes to their lower social status and devaluation.
2. Economic Factors
- Agricultural Dependence: In states with a significant agricultural base, sons are valued for their contribution to farm work and income generation.
- Land Ownership: Traditional land ownership patterns often favor male heirs, creating economic incentives for having sons.
- Economic Vulnerability: Families facing economic hardship may prioritize having sons, believing they will provide financial support in old age.
3. Technological Advancements & Illegal Practices
- Sex-Determination Technology: Despite being legally prohibited, prenatal sex determination through ultrasound and other technologies is widely available, driven by demand.
- Illegal Abortion Clinics: A network of illegal clinics facilitates sex-selective abortions, contributing significantly to the declining sex ratio.
- Lack of Effective Enforcement: Weak enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994, allows these practices to continue unchecked.
Solutions to Address Low Female Sex Ratio
1. Legal and Regulatory Measures
- Strengthening PCPNDT Act: Strict enforcement of the PCPNDT Act, including regular audits of ultrasound clinics, stringent penalties for violations, and increased awareness among healthcare professionals.
- Anonymous Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing anonymous reporting mechanisms to encourage individuals to report instances of sex selection.
- Regulation of Ultrasound Clinics: Implementing stricter regulations on the operation of ultrasound clinics, including mandatory registration and regular inspections.
2. Social Awareness and Behavioral Change Communication
- Mass Media Campaigns: Launching comprehensive mass media campaigns to challenge patriarchal norms, promote the value of daughters, and raise awareness about the consequences of sex selection.
- Community Engagement: Engaging local communities, religious leaders, and influential figures to promote gender equality and discourage sex-selective practices.
- Education and Empowerment of Women: Investing in the education and empowerment of women, providing them with access to economic opportunities and healthcare.
- Promoting Positive Role Models: Highlighting the achievements of women in various fields to challenge societal stereotypes and inspire girls.
3. Economic Incentives and Social Security
- Financial Assistance for Girl Children: Providing financial assistance to families with daughters through schemes like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.
- Social Security for Women: Strengthening social security measures for women, including access to pensions, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
- Land Rights for Women: Promoting land ownership rights for women to enhance their economic independence and social status.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Regular Data Collection: Conducting regular surveys and data collection to monitor the sex ratio at birth and identify areas where interventions are needed.
- Impact Assessment: Evaluating the impact of existing programs and policies to identify best practices and areas for improvement.
Conclusion
Addressing the low female sex ratio in the DEMARU states requires a holistic and sustained approach that tackles the underlying socio-cultural and economic factors driving son preference. Strengthening legal frameworks, promoting social awareness, and empowering women are crucial steps towards achieving gender equality and ensuring a balanced demographic profile. A multi-pronged strategy involving government, civil society, and communities is essential for creating a society where daughters are valued and celebrated. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of interventions are vital to ensure their effectiveness and adapt to changing circumstances.
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.