Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India’s sex ratio, measured as the number of females per 1000 males, has historically been unfavorable to women. While it has improved slightly in recent decades, it remains a significant concern. According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) Special Bulletin on Sex Ratio at Birth, 2019-20, the sex ratio at birth in India is 952 females per 1000 males. This skewed ratio is not a natural phenomenon but a consequence of deeply entrenched socio-cultural factors that prioritize sons over daughters, leading to female foeticide, infanticide, and neglect. Understanding these factors is crucial for formulating effective policies to address this issue.
Historical and Cultural Roots of Son Preference
The preference for sons in India is deeply rooted in historical and cultural practices. Patrilineal inheritance systems, where property and lineage are passed down through the male line, have historically conferred greater economic and social status on sons. This is further reinforced by:
- Patriarchal Norms: A patriarchal social structure assigns primary roles to men in economic provision and family representation.
- Religious Beliefs: Certain religious beliefs and rituals emphasize the importance of sons for performing ancestral rites (Shraddha) and continuing the family lineage.
- Social Security: Sons are traditionally seen as providing old-age security for parents, a crucial consideration in the absence of robust social security systems.
Economic Factors and Gender Discrimination
Economic factors exacerbate son preference. In agrarian societies, sons are often viewed as essential for agricultural labor and contributing to family income. Even in urban settings, the perception of sons as future breadwinners persists. This leads to:
- Lower Investment in Girls’ Education and Health: Families may prioritize investing in sons’ education and healthcare, viewing it as a more profitable investment.
- Dowry System: The practice of dowry, though legally prohibited, continues to be prevalent in many parts of India, making daughters an economic burden for families.
- Limited Economic Opportunities for Women: Restricted access to education, employment, and property ownership limits women’s economic independence, reinforcing their dependence on male family members.
The Role of Technology: Prenatal Sex Determination
The advent of medical technology, particularly ultrasound, has enabled prenatal sex determination, leading to widespread sex-selective abortions. Despite the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994, illegal sex determination clinics continue to operate, fueled by demand from families seeking sons.
| Act | Year | Key Provisions |
|---|---|---|
| PCPNDT Act | 1994 | Prohibits sex selection before or during conception; regulates diagnostic techniques; establishes penalties for violations. |
Regional Variations and Social Stratification
The skewed sex ratio varies significantly across different regions and social groups in India. States like Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan consistently exhibit lower sex ratios compared to states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This disparity is linked to:
- Social Stratification: Higher castes and wealthier families often have greater access to technology for sex determination and are more likely to practice sex-selective abortions.
- Cultural Norms: Regional cultural norms and traditions influence the degree of son preference.
- Literacy Levels: Lower literacy rates, particularly among women, are associated with higher rates of sex-selective abortions.
Impact of Globalization and Changing Social Dynamics
While globalization and modernization have brought about some changes, they haven’t entirely eradicated son preference. In some cases, increased access to information and technology has ironically facilitated sex-selective abortions. However, increased female education and employment are gradually challenging traditional gender roles and promoting a more equitable valuation of daughters.
Conclusion
Addressing India’s skewed sex ratio requires a multi-pronged approach that tackles the underlying socio-cultural factors driving son preference. Strengthening the enforcement of the PCPNDT Act, promoting female education and economic empowerment, challenging patriarchal norms, and raising awareness about the value of daughters are crucial steps. A sustained and concerted effort involving government, civil society organizations, and communities is essential to achieve gender equality and ensure a more balanced sex ratio in 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.