Haryana’s Declining Sex Ratio at Birth

The sex ratio at birth in Haryana has dropped to 910 girls per 1,000 boys in 2024. This marks an eight-year low and raises alarms among activists and civil society. The decline follows a peak of 923 in 2019. The sex ratio is a critical indicator of gender equality and reflects the status of women in society. The National Health and Family Survey-5 reported an overall sex ratio at birth of 929 for India.

Current Statistics and Trends

In 2024, Haryana recorded 516,402 births. Among these, 270,354 were boys and 246,048 were girls. This represents regression from previous improvements. In 2014, the state faced a sex ratio of 871, which prompted widespread activism and government initiatives. The sex ratio improved steadily until 2019 but has since declined.

Government Initiatives

In response to the alarming sex ratio, the Government of India launched the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign in 2015. This initiative aimed to combat female foeticide and promote the value of girl children. The campaign, alongside strict enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994, led to positive changes in societal attitudes.

Challenges in Enforcement

Despite initial successes, enforcement of laws against female foeticide has weakened. Activists report that affluent families still access sex determination services and engage in sex-selective abortions. The phenomenon of preferring “only one boy” has emerged, driven by economic pressures and decreasing land holdings.

Changing Attitudes

Social perceptions regarding the girl child remain problematic. Activists argue that economic factors, such as inflation and the burden of dowry, contribute to families viewing daughters as liabilities. Efforts to change these attitudes are critical for long-term improvement in the sex ratio.

Government’s Perspective on Recent Declines

State officials view the recent decline as a minor fluctuation. They highlight the improvement from 871 in 2014 to 916 in 2023. The government claims to have made progress in empowering daughters through various schemes, including financial incentives for the birth of girls and educational support.

Community Involvement

Community involvement is essential for changing perceptions about girl children. Activists stress the importance of discouraging expensive marriages and dowry practices. The government and society must collaborate to encourage a supportive environment for girls.

Long-Term Implications

The sex ratio at birth impacts the overall status of women in Haryana. Improved education, economic opportunities, and social attitudes towards women are crucial for sustainable change. The current trajectory, if unaddressed, may have far-reaching consequences for gender equality in the state.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign on the sex ratio in Haryana.
2. Explain the significance of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994 in addressing gender imbalances in India.
3. What are the socio-economic factors contributing to the preference for male children in Haryana? Discuss with examples.
4. What is the relationship between education and gender equality? How can improving female education impact the sex ratio?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign on the sex ratio in Haryana.

1. The campaign was launched in 2015 to combat female foeticide and promote the value of girl children.
2. It led to increase in awareness about gender equality and the importance of the girl child.
3. Between 2014 and 2019, the sex ratio improved from 871 to 923, indicating initial success.
4. Recent declines suggest that sustained efforts are needed for long-term impact.
5. Community involvement and changing societal attitudes are essential for the campaign’s effectiveness.

2. Explain the significance of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994 in addressing gender imbalances in India.

1. The PNDT Act prohibits sex selection and aims to prevent female foeticide.
2. It enforces penalties for medical professionals involved in illegal sex determination practices.
3. Strict enforcement of the Act has led to increased awareness and a decline in sex-selective abortions.
4. The Act is crucial in changing societal perceptions about the value of girl children.
5. Continued enforcement and public awareness campaigns are necessary to maintain its effectiveness.

3. What are the socio-economic factors contributing to the preference for male children in Haryana? Discuss with examples.

1. Economic pressures, such as inflation and the cost of raising children, lead families to prefer fewer children, often resulting in a preference for boys.
2. Land ownership and inheritance practices favor male heirs, influencing family decisions.
3. The burden of dowry and expensive marriages makes families view daughters as financial liabilities.
4. Cultural norms and societal attitudes often prioritize sons for family lineage and support in old age.
5. Recent trends show families opting for “only one boy” due to decreasing land holdings and economic challenges.

4. What is the relationship between education and gender equality? How can improving female education impact the sex ratio?

1. Education empowers women, providing them with knowledge and skills to advocate for their rights.
2. Higher educational attainment among women correlates with delayed marriage and childbearing, reducing gender imbalances.
3. Educated women are more likely to value daughters and invest in their education, positively impacting future sex ratios.
4. Education promotes awareness of legal rights and health, reducing practices like female foeticide.
5. Increased female education contributes to economic independence, challenging traditional gender roles and preferences for male children.