Progressive Or Regressive?

There are 21 million “unwanted” girl children in India, says a recent survey conducted by the Government of India. At a time when Indian women are conquering heights in every field, Aditi Kane speaks to notable citizens to gain light on how much India has really changed vis à-vis its women.

- Aditi Kane

India has made amazing progress in the last few decades, be it in science and technology, infrastructure and development, sports, education or healthcare. But if latest reports are anything to go by, the country is still lagging behind very shamefully in one area - gender equality.

REPORT FINDINGS

A recent survey presented by the financial ministry reported that the country’s irresistible urge for male children has given rise to an estimate of 21 million “unwanted girl children.” The figure was calculated on the basis of a “meta” preference for a male child, where couples continue to have children until they produce the desired number of male children, after which they adopt family planning measures.