Sex Ratio in Tribes vs. Scheduled Castes in India
The sex ratio (females per 1,000 males) among Scheduled Tribes (STs) is more favorable than among Scheduled Castes (SCs). As per Census 2011, the sex ratio was:
- Scheduled Tribes (STs): 990 females per 1,000 males
- Scheduled Castes (SCs): 945 females per 1,000 males
- National Average: 940 females per 1,000 males
Reasons for Higher Sex Ratio in Tribes
- Matriarchal Influence: Some tribal societies (e.g., Khasi, Garo in Meghalaya) are matrilineal, leading to better status for women.
- Low Female Infanticide & Feticide: Tribals generally lack son preference compared to caste-based societies where dowry and patriarchal norms are stronger.
- Better Gender Equity in Work Participation: Tribal women have higher workforce participation (37.2%) than SC women (23.4%) – PLFS 2022.
- Limited Access to Sex-Selective Technology: Remote locations reduce the use of ultrasound and sex-determination, leading to lower female feticide.
Why SC Sex Ratio is Lower?
- Strong Son Preference due to dowry, inheritance laws, and economic security concerns.
- Higher Urbanization among SCs exposes them to sex-selective abortion technologies.
- Worse Maternal & Child Healthcare outcomes due to poverty and discrimination (e.g., higher IMR and MMR among SC women).
Conclusion
The tribal way of life promotes better gender balance, while caste-based patriarchy, urbanization, and economic factors lead to lower sex ratios among SCs.
