CHANDIGARH, May 16 — Fresh demographic data reveals deep regional imbalances in Punjab’s latest birth sex ratio metrics, as substantial declines in the Malwa belt offset major structural gains achieved in the Doaba zone.
While the state-wide average ticked upward by two points to reach 924 females per 1,000 males, long-standing social preferences and the misuse of diagnostic screening tools continue to depress numbers across agricultural and urban hubs alike.
“This trend reflects Punjab’s long-standing challenges,” the Health Department report noted, adding that structural issues like son preference, traditional agricultural inheritance expectations, and deep-seated dowry practices continue to impact the demographic balance.
A reordered analysis of the district-level data shows a worrying multi-year downward trajectory in Sangrur. The district’s numbers dropped sequentially from 918 in 2023, to 901 in 2024, and slid further to 896 over the past year. Malerkotla, the state’s sole Muslim-majority district, also experienced a contraction, dropping from 956 to 952.
The border belt presented highly fractured results. Pathankot rallied from a low of 911 last year to hit 926, while Fazilka held firm at a relatively strong 932. Conversely, Amritsar and Tarn Taran both lost ground, dropping to 915 and 903 respectively.
To counter the persistent bias, medical teams are shifting focus toward extensive community-level interventions alongside strict regulatory surveillance of medical imaging centers.
“Awareness campaigns and baby shows under the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative are being organised in schools, hospitals, community health centres and Aam Aadmi Clinics to address social mindsets and promote gender equality,” Dr. Aditi Salaria, Director of Health and Family Welfare, affirmed.
