Question

Which district reported the second-highest decadal increase in Child Sex Ratio (0-6 years)?

• A. A) Kollam
• B. B) Kozhikode
• C. C) Kannur
• D. D) Thrissur

Answer 1

Answer:

B. B) Kozhikode

Understanding Child Sex Ratio (0-6 Years)

• The Child Sex Ratio (CSR) is defined as the number of females per 1000 males in the age group of 0-6 years.
• It is a crucial indicator of the prevailing gender bias in society, reflecting the impact of practices like sex-selective abortions and neglect of female children.
• A declining CSR is a major concern as it leads to an imbalanced population structure, affecting social harmony and future demographic trends.

Kozhikode's Performance in Decadal CSR Increase

• As per the 2011 Census of India, Kozhikode district showed a significant improvement in its Child Sex Ratio (0-6 years) over the decade (2001-2011).
• It recorded the second-highest decadal increase in CSR among all districts in Kerala. This indicates positive strides in addressing gender imbalances among young children in the district.
• Such improvements are often attributed to increased awareness, better access to education and healthcare, and the general socio-economic progress in the region.

Context of Kerala and the Kerala Model

• Kerala is unique in India for its consistently high overall sex ratio, often exceeding 1000 females per 1000 males. However, the CSR (0-6 years) has historically been a point of concern, though better than the national average.
• The Kerala Model of Development emphasizes human development indicators like high literacy rates (especially female literacy), robust public healthcare systems, and equitable access to social services. These factors generally contribute to better female child survival and reduced gender discrimination.
• While the overall CSR for Kerala saw a slight dip from 960 in 2001 to 964 in 2011, individual districts like Kozhikode and Idukki (which recorded the highest decadal increase) demonstrated positive shifts.

Key Facts for Competitive Exams

• Census 2011: The national Child Sex Ratio (0-6 years) was 919. Kerala's CSR was 964.
• Highest CSR in Kerala (2011): Alappuzha (968).
• Lowest CSR in Kerala (2011): Kasaragod (925).
• District with highest decadal increase in CSR (2001-2011): Idukki.
• Government initiatives like the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, launched by the Government of India, aim to improve the Child Sex Ratio and empower girls through education and protection.
• The improvement in CSR in districts like Kozhikode reflects the positive impact of social development and awareness campaigns against gender-selective practices.