Current Affairs Article on Women's Health and Government Interventions

India's sex ratio crisis is deeply rooted in cultural norms and a strong preference for sons, which is exacerbated by weak enforcement of the PC&PNDT Act, 1994. This issue is critical for UPSC aspirants, particularly in GS Paper 1 and 2, as it touches upon social issues and governance. Last Updated: 2025-12-17

Key Facts About India's Sex Ratio Crisis

• India's skewed sex ratio is heavily influenced by son preference and entrenched cultural norms.
• The PC&PNDT Act, 1994 was established to curb female foeticide and regulate prenatal diagnostic techniques.
• Institutional gaps significantly weaken the enforcement of the Act.
• Digital platforms have become a new avenue for promoting illegal sex selection practices.
• A holistic strategy is essential to bring about effective change.
• Technology can play a crucial role in monitoring and reporting violations of the Act.
• Low conviction rates are a major hindrance to the law's effectiveness.
• Deep-rooted societal demand for sons continues to persist, challenging progress.

India's Societal and Legal Challenges in Women's Health

The skewed sex ratio in India has significant implications for the country's social fabric and demographic stability. Addressing this issue aligns with India's broader goals of achieving gender equality and improving women's health outcomes. Despite legal frameworks like the PC&PNDT Act, 1994, the shift to digital platforms complicates enforcement, necessitating a comprehensive approach that includes technological solutions, legal reforms, and societal change. India's global standing in gender parity can improve with sustained efforts in these areas.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Aims to improve the child sex ratio and promote the education of girls.
• National Health Mission: Focuses on reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health.
• Digital India Initiative: Enhances digital infrastructure, which can be leveraged for monitoring illegal activities.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Social issues related to gender and population dynamics.
• GS Paper 2: Governance and policy measures, including the effectiveness of the PC&PNDT Act.
• Prelims Angle: Questions on the provisions of the PC&PNDT Act, 1994, and related statistics.
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes on gender equality, legal reforms, and societal change.
• Essay Paper: Topics on gender issues and policy interventions.

FAQ Section

• What is India's sex ratio crisis? India's sex ratio crisis refers to the disproportionate number of males to females, largely due to cultural son preference and practices like female foeticide.
• Why is the PC&PNDT Act, 1994 important? The PC&PNDT Act, 1994 is crucial as it aims to prevent sex-selective abortions and regulate prenatal diagnostic techniques to improve the sex ratio.
• What are the key features of the PC&PNDT Act? The Act prohibits sex selection before or after conception and mandates the registration of all diagnostic laboratories, among other provisions.