India has achieved a significant improvement in its sex ratio at birth, witnessing a commendable increase of 15 points over the past eight years. According to recent data released, the sex ratio at birth has risen from 918 in 2014-15 to 933 in 2022-23, marking a positive stride towards gender equality and women’s empowerment in the country.
The sex ratio at birth, which represents the number of female births per 1,000 male births, is an essential indicator of gender balance and societal well-being. The upswing in India’s sex ratio indicates an encouraging trend of greater parity between male and female births.
The substantial improvement in the sex ratio at birth comes as a result of sustained efforts by the government, civil society, and various stakeholders to combat gender-based discrimination and promote the value of the girl child.
Through targeted awareness campaigns, policy interventions, and community engagement initiatives, the message of gender equality and the importance of valuing daughters has been disseminated widely across the country.
The rise in the sex ratio at birth reflects a positive shift in societal attitudes, where the preference for male children is gradually giving way to recognizing the inherent worth and potential of girls.
India’s progress in improving the sex ratio at birth aligns with its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5 – Gender Equality. It also underscores the nation’s commitment to empowering women and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Despite the encouraging trend, challenges persist, and efforts to promote gender equality and women’s rights remain ongoing. Addressing deep-rooted biases and ensuring that every girl is cherished and given equal opportunities to thrive is crucial for sustaining the positive trajectory of the sex ratio at birth.
The government, along with various stakeholders, continues to work on comprehensive strategies to further improve gender parity, prevent sex-selective practices, and foster a society that values and nurtures its girls and women.
As the nation celebrates this progress, there is a renewed call for collective action and commitment to ensure that all girls and women have access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for growth and development.
The rise in India’s sex ratio at birth is not only a statistical achievement but also a testament to the evolving social consciousness and collective determination to build a more inclusive and equitable society for future generations.
