Rajasthan: How Vasundhara Raje Government Ensured Growth In Sex Ratio At Birth

Rajasthan government’s efforts towards effective implement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act have resulted in a significant growth in its sex ratio at birth (SRB). The ratio has has gone up - from 888 in 2011 census to 950 in 2017-18.

A report quoted Naveen Jain, Director, National Health Mission saying "We have carried out a number of activities to improve the situation in the state like decoy operations, prosecution of those held for sex determination, among others." According to the official, 14.5 lakh births in the state were examined in 2017-18.

According to Rajasthan Health Minister Kalicharan Saraf, 276 people, including 170 doctors, have been arrested in the state for their alleged role in female foeticide and 19 decoy operations were performed this year.

Jain added, "We have created a terror among those involved in sex determination tests and other illegal activities and as a result of it, the state's sex ratio at birth is significantly improving." According to this report, 2,968 sonography machines are registered in Rajasthan.

A good network of informers and a strong team under the PCPNDT cell boosted the operations and in bringing down female foeticide in the state. The reports mention that decoy operations include pregnant women who help the cell reach and arrest people involved in sex selection in the state.