Despite International Women’s Day celebrations, female feticide continues to be a concern in India

Mumbai, March 8: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, it has been revealed that over 6.30 crore girls are “missing” from the Indian population since Census 2011 due to female feticide and infanticides. These shocking figures were disclosed in the Economic Survey of India (2017-2018).

Dr. Ganesh Rakh, a Pune-based activist and medico, highlighted the issue, stating that the obsession for sons among Indian couples is leading to the prevention of girls being born and a higher mortality rate among females who are born. The Lancet Global Health-2018 report further emphasized the grim reality of nearly 2,39,000 girls under five dying each year in India due to gender discrimination.

Despite strict laws, selective abortion of female fetuses continues, resulting in a skewed sex ratio in the country. The absence of recent data on these crucial social issues due to the postponement of Census 2021 amidst the Covid-19 pandemic poses significant challenges in addressing the problem effectively. However, efforts are being made to reduce gender discrimination and increase awareness through various social programs.

Dr. Rakh emphasized the importance of empowering girls through education, job opportunities, and policy initiatives to combat the deep-rooted societal issues affecting them. The need for increased awareness to ‘Save Girl Child’ and address gender disparities at every level is crucial to ensure a better future for women in India. The fight against female feticide and infanticides continues with a call for collective action and policy support.