Pune: Concerns have emerged over the declining birth rate of girls in Pune city and district, as statistics from the Public Health Department reveal that only 898 girls were born for every 1,000 boys last year.

This significant drop indicates a continuing preference for male children, despite awareness efforts and strict regulations against gender-based discrimination.

The gender ratio is an indicator of how many girls are born compared to boys in a given year.

An ideal ratio suggests an equal number of boys and girls; however, in Pune’s urban areas, the ratio stood at 897 girls for every 1,000 boys in 2023, while the rural areas recorded 901 girls for every 1,000 boys.

This disparity points to the persistent issue of gender-based abortions and societal bias against the birth of female children.

Instances of sex-selective abortions following prenatal gender determination tests have been documented. Six months ago, a case involving illegal sex determination in a van was uncovered in Malegaon, Baramati.

Alarmingly, the accused had previously been arrested two to three times for the same crime, highlighting gaps in enforcement and prevention measures.

The gender ratio in Pune reflects a broader state-level issue, as Maharashtra reported 907 girls born per 1,000 boys, an average taken across all districts in the state.

While the numbers are slightly better at the state level, they are still far from ideal, raising concerns among authorities and activists.

Dr. Radhakishan Pawar, Deputy Director of Health, Pune Circle, emphasized the department's ongoing efforts to curb this practice.

“The health department is inspecting centers regularly to increase the birth rate of girls. This year, we have taken action against individuals involved in illegal sex determination activities in Baramati and Narayangaon.

Continuous awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate citizens. We urge people to report any such practices to the health authorities or through the ‘Aamchi Mulgi’ portal,” he stated.