Sex composition refers to the distribution of males and females in a population. It is a fundamental demographic characteristic. Changes in this composition reflect socio-economic and cultural patterns. Understanding sex composition is vital for planning and analysis of various demographic aspects.
Definition of Sex Ratio
The sex ratio is defined as the number of females per 1000 males in a population. A sex ratio of 1000 indicates gender parity. Ratios above 1000 show a surplus of females, while those below indicate a deficit.
Factors Influencing Sex Ratio
Several factors contribute to variations in sex ratios:
- Mortality Rates: Women generally have higher life expectancy than men, leading to a higher proportion of females in older age groups.
- Birth Ratios: At birth, there are typically more males than females. This male-biased birth ratio is consistent across countries.
- Migration: Male-dominant migration patterns can skew the sex ratio in certain regions.
Sex Ratio in India
According to the 2011 Census, India had a population of 1210.1 million, with a sex ratio of 943 females per 1000 males. This indicates gender imbalance. The sex ratio declined from 933 in 2001.
Causes of Low Sex Ratio in India
Several factors contribute to the low sex ratio in India:
- Male Birth Preference: More males are born than females, a global phenomenon.
- Female Infanticide: Historical practices of infanticide and modern feticide contribute to the decline.
- Legal Loopholes: Ineffective enforcement of laws against sex-selective practices.
- Small Family Norms: Couples often opt for one child, typically a male.
State-Level Patterns
Between 1951 and 2011, the rural sex ratio decreased from 965 to 946, while urban areas saw an increase from 860 to 929. Notable increases were recorded in states like Delhi and Assam, while declines occurred in states like Goa and Daman & Diu.
Child Sex Ratio (CSR)
The Child Sex Ratio (CSR) measures females per 1000 males in the 0-6 age group. In 2001, India’s CSR was 927, which fell to 918 in 2011. The highest CSR was in Arunachal Pradesh (972), and the lowest was in Haryana (834).
Consequences of Low Child Sex Ratio
A declining child sex ratio has serious implications:
- Increased violence against women.
- Marriage market imbalances, leading to delayed marriages for men.
- Weaker political representation for women.
Government Initiatives
To address the declining sex ratio, the Government of India has implemented various initiatives:
- PCPNDT Act: Prohibits sex determination during pregnancy.
- National Girl Child Day: Celebrated on January 24 to promote gender equality.
- Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Launched to prevent gender-biased elimination and promote education for girls.
Current Sex Ratio Trends
As of 2025, India’s population is approximately 1.44 billion, with a sex ratio of about 106 males per 100 females. This places India at 214th out of 236 countries for female-to-male ratio.
Projected Improvements
The Ministry of Statistics projects a gradual improvement in the sex ratio from 943 females per 1000 males in 2011 to 952 by 2036. This reflects a slight increase in the female population share.
Demographic Changes
India’s demographic landscape is changing:
- Declining Youth Population: Fewer children are being born.
- Growing Elderly Population: Increasing numbers of people aged 60 and above.
Education and Fertility Trends
Education impacts fertility rates. Women are delaying childbirth for educational and career opportunities. Higher education levels correlate with lower fertility rates.
Types of Sex Ratios
There are four types of sex ratios:
- Primary Sex Ratio (PSR): Reflects the ratio at conception.
- Secondary Sex Ratio (SSR): Measured at birth, showing more males than females.
- Tertiary Sex Ratio (TSR): Relates to young adults.
- Quaternary Sex Ratio (QSR): Concerns older adults aged 60 and above.
Historical Trends in India
The sex ratio in India has declined from 972 in 1901 to 943 in 2011. This downward trend marks a persistent bias against females.
Regional Disparities
Different states exhibit varying sex ratios. Kerala has the highest at 1084 females per 1000 males, while Haryana has the lowest at 877. Union territories also show disparities.
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5)
The NFHS-5 survey for 2020-21 reported a sex ratio of 1020 females per 1000 males. Rural areas had a higher ratio than urban areas, indicating regional differences.
Future Projections
By 2036, the sex ratio is expected to improve to 952 females per 1000 males. This reflects ongoing efforts to address gender imbalances.
Reasons for Declining Sex Ratio
The declining sex ratio can be attributed to several factors:
- Son Preference: Cultural biases favour male children.
- Gender Disparity: More male births contribute to imbalances.
- Female Infanticide: Despite legality, infanticide persists.
- Ineffective Legislation: Laws against sex selection are poorly enforced.
