Profile of child sex ratio in India: A geographical analysis

Abstract

The present study is an attempt to examine the spatial variations in child sex ratio of the country. Further, the study identifies the factors responsible for such spatial disparities found in this context. It has been observed that the northern, western and north-western areas of the country have a worse child sex ratio as compared to the eastern, north-eastern and southern parts. The study has found that the deep-rooted patriarchal structure in north-western states is mostly responsible for this deteriorating position of child sex ratio. On contrary to it, the traditional matriarchal culture contributed to high child sex ratio in the southern states of India. Moreover, the study has pointed out that female literacy rate and child sex ratio are positively correlated. It has a positive impact on child sex ratio of the southern parts of the country. Thus, to understand the spatial differentials in child sex ratio of India and its related factors the Census 2011 data has been used in the present study.