Which of the following factors contributes to the low child sex ratio in some economically developed Northern states of India?
1) Increased accessibility to prenatal sex-determination methods
2) High levels of female literacy and empowerment
3) Societal preference for male children in inheritance and family support
4) Strengthened enforcement of gender-equal policies
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: 1 and 3
Explanation: Low child sex ratio in some economically developed northern states of India is mainly due to:
Increased accessibility to prenatal sex-determination methods
Technologies like ultrasound have been misused for sex-selective abortions, despite being banned under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act.
Societal preference for male children
Deep-rooted cultural factors such as inheritance, lineage, and old-age support lead to a preference for sons.
Additional Key Facts
Child Sex Ratio = Number of girls per 1000 boys (0–6 years age group).
States like Haryana and Punjab historically showed low child sex ratios.
Census 2011 child sex ratio in India: 919 girls per 1000 boys.
Government campaigns like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana aim to address this issue.
Potential Exam Questions & Answers
Q. Name two Indian states historically known for low child sex ratio.
Ans: Haryana and Punjab
Q. Which government scheme aims to improve the child sex ratio in India?
Ans: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana