⚖️ India Sex Ratio 2026

Sex Ratio in India

Sex ratio is a crucial demographic indicator that reflects the number of females per 1000 males in a population. As per Census 2011, India's overall sex ratio is 942 females per 1000 males. This indicator provides insights into gender balance, social conditions, and the status of women in society. A balanced sex ratio is essential for social harmony and sustainable demographic development in any nation.

A balanced sex ratio is important for social stability and healthy demographic development. India has historically had a skewed sex ratio favoring males, attributed to factors such as son preference, gender-based discrimination, and sex-selective practices. Addressing this imbalance has been a priority for policymakers and social activists working towards gender equality and women's empowerment.

Understanding Sex Ratio

The sex ratio is calculated by dividing the female population by the male population and multiplying by 1000. A sex ratio of 1000 indicates equal numbers of males and females, while a ratio below 1000 indicates more males than females. Globally, the natural sex ratio at birth is approximately 105 males per 100 females, but this typically balances out over time due to higher male mortality rates at all ages.

India's sex ratio has shown improvement over recent decades, rising from 927 in 1991 to 933 in 2001 and 943 in 2011. This improvement reflects the impact of awareness campaigns, legal measures against sex-selective practices, and changing social attitudes. However, the ratio remains below the global average and continues to be a concern for demographers and policymakers.

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter) campaign and strict enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act have contributed to improving sex ratios in many regions. These initiatives aim to address both the immediate issue of sex selection and the underlying social attitudes that drive it.

Historical Trends

India's sex ratio has fluctuated over the past century. In 1901, the sex ratio was 972, which declined to 930 by 1971. The lowest point was reached in 1991 at 927. Since then, there has been a gradual improvement, with the 2011 census recording 943. This historical perspective shows that the problem of gender imbalance has deep roots but is not insurmountable with sustained efforts.

The decline in sex ratio during the 20th century coincided with the availability of sex-determination technologies and the persistence of son preference in many communities. The subsequent improvement reflects the success of government interventions and changing social attitudes, particularly among younger generations and in urban areas.

Child Sex Ratio

The child sex ratio (0-6 years age group) is particularly concerning as it reflects recent trends in sex selection. As per Census 2011, the child sex ratio was 919, lower than the overall sex ratio, indicating continued challenges in addressing gender-based discrimination. This is a worrying trend as it suggests that sex-selective practices continue despite legal prohibitions and awareness campaigns.

States like Haryana, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir have reported particularly low child sex ratios, prompting targeted interventions. Improving child sex ratio requires addressing deep-rooted social attitudes, strengthening legal enforcement, and promoting the value of the girl child. Community engagement and awareness programs have been crucial in changing attitudes at the grassroots level.

Causes and Concerns

The skewed sex ratio in India is attributed to several factors including son preference driven by patriarchal social structures, the practice of dowry, economic considerations where sons are seen as old-age security, and the misuse of sex-determination technologies. These factors interact in complex ways and vary across regions and communities, requiring tailored interventions.

The consequences of a skewed sex ratio are significant and far-reaching. They include increased trafficking of women, forced marriages, and social instability. Regions with severely skewed sex ratios have reported increased violence against women and social tensions. Addressing these issues requires a multi-pronged approach involving legal measures, social awareness, and economic empowerment of women.

State-wise Sex Ratio

States with the best sex ratios include Kerala (1084), Puducherry (1037), Tamil Nadu (996), Andhra Pradesh (993), Chhattisgarh (991). These states have better gender indicators and more balanced demographic profiles, often correlating with higher female literacy and economic participation.

States with lower sex ratios need focused attention through awareness programs, incentive schemes for girl children, and strict enforcement of laws against sex-selective practices. Understanding state-wise sex ratio data helps in designing targeted interventions for gender equality. The variation across states also provides opportunities for learning from successful interventions and replicating them elsewhere.

Government Initiatives

The government has launched several initiatives to improve sex ratio and promote gender equality. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme provides financial incentives for families with girl children and promotes their education. The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana offers a savings scheme for girl children with attractive interest rates. These programs aim to change the perception of girls as a burden and highlight their value to families and society.