Adverse Sex Ratio in Prosperous Regions of India
1. Son Preference & Socio-Cultural Norms
- Patriarchal mindset persists despite economic prosperity.
- Dowry system and inheritance laws favor male heirs (e.g., Punjab, Haryana).
2. Sex-Selective Abortion & Medical Access
- Easy access to ultrasound technology leads to higher female foeticide.
- Example: Haryana (Sex Ratio: 926/1000, NFHS-5) despite high per capita income.
3. Lower Female Workforce Participation
- Economic prosperity doesn’t translate into greater female employment.
- Example: Punjab has only 13% female workforce participation (PLFS 2022-23).
4. Higher Education & Late Marriages
- Wealthier families prefer fewer children, and societal preference leads to selective abortion.
Conclusion
Economic prosperity alone does not change deep-rooted gender biases. Stronger legal enforcement (PCPNDT Act, 1994) and socio-cultural change are necessary to correct the skewed sex ratio.
