Punjab sex ratio 2024 in India State Wise, Shocking Inequality Exposed
In 2024, Punjab sex ratio remains a critical topic, highlighting persistent gender inequality and societal challenges across India. The State overall sex ratio, defined as the number of females per 1,000 males, stood at 918 in 2024, a marginal improvement from previous years but still below the national average of 929.
This concerning statistic reflects deep-rooted cultural biases, inadequate policy enforcement, and regional disparities, particularly in Punjab’s border districts. This article explores the state-wise sex ratio trends in Punjab, the underlying causes of the imbalance, and the urgent need for transformative action to promote gender equality.
Understanding the Punjab Sex Ratio in 2024
The sex ratio in Punjab has been a longstanding issue, with the state earning a troubling reputation for skewed gender demographics. According to recent data, Punjab sex ratio at birth (SRB)—the number of female live births per 1,000 male live births—remains alarmingly low in several districts.
For instance, Pathankot recorded a sharp decline, dropping from 902 in 2023 to 864 in 2024, marking it as the state’s worst-performing district. Similarly, Gurdaspur reported a sex ratio of 888, slightly better than the previous year but still indicative of systemic issues. Meanwhile, districts like Kapurthala and Malerkotla showed marginal improvements, with ratios of 987 and 961, respectively.
These disparities highlight a complex interplay of social, economic, and cultural factors. Despite legal frameworks like the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC-PNDT) Act of 1994, which bans sex-selective abortions, female foeticide persists in Punjab.
The state’s proximity to borders and low literacy rates in certain areas exacerbate the problem, allowing underground networks to thrive. Consequently, Punjab’s gender imbalance continues to pose a significant challenge to achieving social equity.
State-Wise Breakdown of Punjab’s Sex Ratio
Punjab sex ratio varies significantly across its 23 districts, reflecting regional differences in education, economic status, and cultural attitudes. Kapurthala, with a sex ratio of 987, leads the state, though it experienced a slight decline from 992 in 2023.
Malerkotla, a Muslim-majority district, improved by 39 points to 961, demonstrating the impact of community-driven initiatives. However, border districts like Pathankot and Gurdaspur remain outliers, with ratios well below the World Health Organization’s standard SRB range of 952–980.
Other districts, such as Ludhiana and Amritsar, reported sex ratios of 920 and 910, respectively, aligning closely with the state average.
Also Read: Punjab Literacy Rate 2025: Progress and Challenges
Rural areas in Punjab, which account for 62.52% of the population, tend to have slightly Higher sex ratios (907) compared to Urban areas (895). Nevertheless, the overall trend suggests that Punjab lags behind states like Kerala (1,145) and Himachal Pradesh (964), which have made significant strides in addressing gender imbalances.
Root Causes of Punjab’s Gender Imbalance
Several factors contribute to Punjab skewed sex ratio. Firstly, patriarchal mindsets remain deeply entrenched, with a cultural preference for male heirs driving sex-selective practices. The dowry system, still prevalent in many communities, reinforces the perception of daughters as financial burdens.
Secondly, despite the PC-PNDT Act, enforcement remains weak, with insufficient inspections of ultrasound clinics and diagnostic centers. Advanced medical technologies have made sex determination more accessible, particularly in affluent households, disproving the notion that economic prosperity guarantees gender equality.
Moreover, low literacy rates in border districts like Pathankot and Gurdaspur exacerbate the issue. According to the 2011 Census, Punjab’s female literacy rate was 70.73%, significantly lower than the male rate of 80.44%.
This educational gap perpetuates ignorance about gender rights and the value of female children. Additionally, cross-border activities and lax monitoring allow illegal practices to persist, undermining government efforts to curb female foeticide.
Government Initiatives and Their Impact
The Indian government has implemented several schemes to address sex ratio imbalances, with mixed results in Punjab. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, launched in 2015, aims to promote girl child education and prevent female foeticide.
While the initiative has raised awareness, its impact in Punjab has been limited, particularly in rural and border areas. The National Girl Child Day, celebrated annually on January 24, emphasizes the importance of gender equality, but grassroots implementation remains inconsistent.
Also Read: NH Punjab – Lifeline Connecting Culture and Commerce
The PC-PNDT Act has led to technological advancements, such as online monitoring of ultrasound clinics, reducing sex-selective abortions to some extent.
However, experts argue that stricter accountability for medical professionals and hyper-local interventions through Panchayats and NGOs are essential for sustained progress. Engaging men and boys in campaigns to redefine masculinity and challenge gender-based violence could further amplify these efforts.
The Path Forward: Solutions for a Balanced Future
Addressing Punjab sex ratio crisis requires a multifaceted approach. First, strengthening the enforcement of the PC-PNDT Act through regular audits and severe penalties for violators is critical. Second, increasing female literacy and access to education in rural areas can empower communities to challenge patriarchal norms.
Third, expanding awareness campaigns like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao to include men and boys can foster a cultural shift toward gender equity.
Additionally, leveraging technology to track sex ratio data and identify high-risk areas can guide targeted interventions. Social media campaigns, online workshops, and community-driven initiatives have shown promise in states like Haryana and Rajasthan, where local efforts have improved sex ratios. By adopting similar strategies, Punjab can work toward a more balanced demographic by 2030, aligning with national goals.
In Conclusion, the Punjab sex ratio in 2024 underscores a persistent gender crisis that demands urgent action. While districts like Kapurthala and Malerkotla show signs of progress, the alarming declines in Pathankot and Gurdaspur highlight the need for stronger policies, cultural shifts, and community engagement.
By addressing patriarchal norms, enhancing female education, and enforcing laws like the PC-PNDT Act, Punjab can pave the way for a more equitable future. The journey toward gender equality is challenging but essential for the state’s social and economic progress.
FAQs About Punjab Sex Ratio in 2024
What is the sex ratio in Punjab for 2024?
Overall Punjab sex ratio in 2024 is 918 females per 1,000 males, with significant variations across districts like Pathankot (864) and Kapurthala (987).
Why is Punjab sex ratio lower than the national average?
Cultural preferences for male children, weak enforcement of laws like the PC-PNDT Act, and low literacy rates in border areas contribute to Punjab’s gender imbalance.
Which district in Punjab has the lowest sex ratio in 2024?
Pathankot has the lowest sex ratio at 864, a sharp decline from 902 in 2023, largely due to female foeticide and low literacy.
What steps is the government taking to improve Punjab sex ratio?
Initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, National Girl Child Day, and stricter enforcement of the PC-PNDT Act aim to promote gender equality and reduce sex-selective abortions.
How does Punjab sex ratio compare to other states?
Punjab sex ratio (918) is lower than states like Kerala (1,145) and Himachal Pradesh (964) but higher than Haryana (910).