Female foeticide in India

Female foeticide in India is the abortion of a female fetus outside of legal channels. The practice has been linked to the cultural preference for male children in some parts of India. Female foeticide has contributed to a skewed sex ratio in India, with significantly fewer females than males in some regions. This article explores the causes, consequences, and efforts to combat female foeticide in India.

Causes

The root causes of female foeticide are complex and multifaceted. Cultural norms and social practices in some parts of India place a higher value on male offspring. Sons are often seen as breadwinners who will provide financial support for their parents in old age, continue the family name, and perform the last rites for deceased parents, which are important for the parents' afterlife according to Hindu beliefs. In contrast, daughters are sometimes viewed as a financial burden due to the dowry system, where the bride's family must give gifts or money to the groom's family, a practice that is officially illegal but still widespread.

Economic factors also play a significant role. The cost associated with dowries can be financially crippling for families. Additionally, the perception that sons will contribute financially to the family while daughters will marry and leave the household contributes to the preference for male children.

Advancements in medical technology have also facilitated female foeticide. Ultrasound technology, which can determine the sex of a fetus, has been misused for sex-selective abortions, despite laws against the practice.

Consequences

The practice of female foeticide has led to a significant gender imbalance in India. Some regions have seen drastic declines in the number of females compared to males. This imbalance has far-reaching consequences for society, including an increase in gender-based violence, human trafficking, and a rise in the number of men unable to find spouses.

The skewed sex ratio also impacts the psychological and social fabric of communities, leading to increased social tensions and a devaluation of women.

Efforts to Combat Female Foeticide

The Indian government and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have taken steps to address female foeticide. Laws such as the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994, were enacted to ban sex determination tests and prevent sex-selective abortions. However, enforcement of these laws has been challenging.

Awareness campaigns and educational programs have been launched to change societal attitudes towards female children. Initiatives like the "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter) campaign aim to improve the efficiency of welfare services intended for girls in India.

Conclusion

Female foeticide is a grave issue that reflects deep-seated gender biases and socio-economic factors. While legal frameworks and awareness campaigns are steps in the right direction, eradicating female foeticide requires a multifaceted approach that includes changing societal attitudes, enforcing existing laws more effectively, and providing economic support and incentives for families with daughters.