Haryana’s Declining Sex Ratio at Birth

In 2024, Haryana reported a concerning drop in its sex ratio at birth, reaching an eight-year low of 910 girls for every 1,000 boys. This figure has alarmed activists and civil society members, despite government officials describing it as a minor fluctuation. The sex ratio is a critical indicator of gender equality and reflects the status of women in society. Nationally, the sex ratio at birth in India was recorded at 929 in the National Health and Family Survey-5 (NFHS-5) published in 2021.

About the Sex Ratio

The sex ratio at birth measures the number of female births per 1,000 male births. A balanced sex ratio is vital for gender equity and societal health. In Haryana, the ratio has fluctuated over the past decade, indicating ongoing challenges in addressing gender bias.

Historical Context

Haryana’s sex ratio at birth was alarmingly low at 871 in 2014. This situation prompted widespread protests and initiated government and civil society efforts to improve the ratio. The ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, aimed to combat female foeticide and promote the welfare of girls.

Recent Trends

In 2024, Haryana saw 270,354 boys and 246,048 girls born, resulting in a sex ratio of 910. This decline from 916 in 2023 marks a troubling trend, especially after a peak of 923 in 2019. The decline is particularly disheartening given the state’s recent successes in improving gender ratios.

Factors Behind the Decline

The initial improvements in Haryana’s sex ratio were attributed to strict enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994 (PNDT Act) and awareness campaigns. However, activists argue that enforcement has weakened recently, allowing sex determination and selective abortions to persist.

Changing Attitudes

Social attitudes towards gender continue to pose challenges. Many families still prefer male children, viewing daughters as financial burdens. Activists like Sunil Jaglan highlight the emergence of a new trend where families opt for “only one boy” due to economic pressures, including rising inflation and decreasing land holdings.

Government Initiatives

Haryana officials assert that the state has made progress, with over 4,000 arrests made under the PNDT Act in the past decade. The government has implemented financial incentives for families with daughters and has worked to improve educational opportunities for girls. These initiatives aim to alter societal perceptions of the girl child.

1. The PNDT Act was enacted in 1994 to prevent sex-selective abortions.
2. Haryana’s sex ratio improved from 871 in 2014 to 916 in 2023.
3. The ‘Selfie With Daughter’ campaign promotes pride in girl children.
4. More than 4,000 individuals have been arrested under the PNDT Act.
5. The Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme supports girls’ financial security.

The Role of Civil Society

Activists and organisations play important role in advocating for gender equality. They work to shift societal attitudes and hold authorities accountable for enforcing laws designed to protect the rights of women and girls. Their efforts are essential in combating the entrenched biases that contribute to skewed sex ratios.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2025

Category: States Current Affairs