Sex Ratio of India: Trends, State-wise Statistics, and Latest Data

Sex Ratio of India is a key demographic indicator that represents the number of females per 1,000 males in the population. Its main purpose is to measure gender balance and reflect the social, economic, and health status of women in society. A balanced sex ratio indicates equitable access to resources such as healthcare, education, and employment, while an imbalanced ratio highlights issues like gender discrimination and social inequality.

From an examination perspective, this topic holds strong relevance for aspirants preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, especially the UPSC IAS Examination. The Sex Ratio of India is an important part of General Studies Paper 1 (Prelims and Mains), particularly under the Indian Society section. Questions related to demographic trends, gender inequality, and government initiatives are frequently asked, making it essential for candidates to understand both the data and its socio-economic implications.

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What is Sex Ratio?

The sex ratio of India refers to the number of females per 1,000 males in the population. It is an important demographic indicator used to understand gender balance and the overall status of women in society. A balanced sex ratio reflects equal access to healthcare, education, and social opportunities, while an imbalanced ratio highlights issues like gender discrimination and unequal resource distribution.

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Sex Ratio of India 2026

The table below provides a comparison of sex ratio trends based on Census 2011, NFHS-5 (2019–21), and the current estimated trend across selected states and union territories.

Note:

• Census 2011 recorded India’s overall sex ratio at 943 females per 1,000 males.
• NFHS-5 data shows a significant improvement to 1,020 females per 1,000 males.
• “Current” values are approximate trends based on recent surveys and projections for sex ratio of India 2026.

Lowest Sex Ratio State of India

The Lowest Sex Ratio State of India is Haryana, which recorded 877 females per 1,000 males in the Census 2011. This low ratio has been a major concern for policymakers and reflects deep-rooted socio-cultural issues such as preference for male children, gender discrimination, and misuse of prenatal diagnostic techniques.

Over the years, Haryana has taken significant steps to improve its gender balance. Initiatives like awareness campaigns, strict enforcement of laws, and schemes promoting girl child welfare have led to gradual improvement, as reflected in NFHS-5 data. However, achieving a balanced sex ratio remains an ongoing challenge.

Highest Sex Ratio State of India

The Highest Sex Ratio State of India is Kerala, with 1,084 females per 1,000 males according to Census 2011. Kerala consistently ranks at the top due to its strong social indicators.

Key factors contributing to Kerala’s high sex ratio include:

• High literacy rates, especially among women
• Better healthcare infrastructure
• Greater gender awareness and social equality
• Higher female participation in education and workforce

Kerala serves as a model for other states aiming to achieve gender balance and social development.

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Highest Sex Ratio UT of India

Among Union Territories, Puducherry has the Highest Sex Ratio UT of India, with 1,037 females per 1,000 males (Census 2011).

This favourable ratio is supported by:

• Strong healthcare and education systems
• Urban development and better living standards
• Higher awareness regarding women’s rights

Puducherry’s demographic pattern reflects a more balanced and inclusive society compared to many other regions.

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Lowest Sex Ratio UT of India

The Lowest Sex Ratio UT of India is Daman and Diu, with only 618 females per 1,000 males. This is one of the most skewed sex ratios in the country.

The primary reasons include:

• Large-scale migration of male workers for industrial employment
• Temporary population imbalance due to workforce trends
• Limited long-term family settlements

This shows how migration and economic factors can significantly impact demographic indicators.

Lowest Sex Ratio District of India

The Lowest Sex Ratio District of India is Daman district (Daman & Diu), with around 533 females per 1,000 males.

This extreme imbalance is mainly due to:

• High concentration of male migrant workers
• Industrial workforce dominance
• Low permanent female population

Such district-level data highlights the importance of localized policies and targeted interventions.

Highest Sex Ratio District of India

The Highest Sex Ratio District of India is Mahe (Puducherry), with approximately 1,176 females per 1,000 males.

This high ratio reflects:

• Better healthcare and education access
• Social acceptance and empowerment of women
• Stable population with minimal migration imbalance

Mahe stands as an example of a region with strong gender equality and balanced demographics.

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Government Initiatives and Schemes to Address Declining Child Sex Ratio

To tackle the issue of declining child sex ratio and promote gender equality, the Government of India has introduced several important schemes and laws:

• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): A flagship initiative aimed at preventing gender-biased sex selection, ensuring survival, protection, and education of the girl child.
• PCPNDT Act: This law strictly prohibits sex determination before birth and regulates the use of diagnostic technologies to prevent female foeticide.
• Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: A financial savings scheme designed to secure the future of girl children by supporting their education and marriage expenses.
• Ladli Laxmi Yojana:  Implemented by several states, this scheme provides financial incentives to families for raising and educating girl children.

Additional measures include awareness campaigns, stricter law enforcement, and educational initiatives to change societal attitudes toward gender.

UPSC Previous Year Questions Asked from Sex Ratio

Here are some important questions asked by UPSC in previous years related to the Sex Ratio;

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