What is Female Infanticide, and Why is it Still Prevalent?

In a culturally vibrant country like India, children carry the hope of building a brighter tomorrow. However, gender-based discrimination—including female infanticide—remains a challenge in some parts of India.

This age-old practice, though illegal, still exists due to various social, economic, and cultural factors. It is essential to address this issue with collective effort, awareness, and community involvement to secure a fair and safe environment for every child, regardless of gender.

Understanding Female Infanticide

So, what is female infanticide? It refers to the deliberate killing of newborn girls simply because they are female. This harmful practice is rooted in deep-seated social preferences for male children over female ones. While strict laws and growing awareness have reduced its occurrence, isolated instances are still reported, highlighting the need for sustained vigilance.

The issue is different from female foeticide, which involves aborting a female foetus before birth. Female infanticide involves ending the life of a baby girl after birth. Although India has taken many steps to protect girls, some cases still happen, showing that more awareness and action are needed.

Causes of Female Infanticide

Several reasons contribute to the persistence of female infanticide in India. One of the primary causes of female infanticide is the age-old cultural preference for male children. Sons are often viewed as carriers of the family name and considered financial supporters in old age.

In some communities, daughters are seen as a financial burden due to the traditional expectation of dowry at marriage. Even though dowry is illegal in India under the Dowry Prohibition Act 1 of 961, the social practice continues in some areas. Additionally, limited access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for girls in some regions continues to support this mindset.

Poverty also plays a significant role, as families with very little money may wrongly think that having a son will bring them better financial support in the future.

Also Read: Causes of Infant Mortality Rate in India

The Impact of Female Infanticide on Society

The consequences of female infanticide stretch beyond the loss of innocent lives. It disturbs the natural gender ratio in the population. According to the Census of India 2011, the child sex ratio (number of girls per 1000 boys in the 0–6 age group) was 919, a decline from 927 in 2001 (Source: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 2014).

However, according to the more recent National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), India’s overall sex ratio (including all age groups) improved to 1020 females for every 1000 males (Source: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 2021). While this progress is encouraging, concerns remain in specific regions and age groups, highlighting the need for continued awareness and action.

An imbalanced sex ratio can lead to various social problems, including increased crimes against women, child trafficking, and challenges in finding suitable life partners. Societies with fewer women often witness rising instances of violence and exploitation. The lack of girls also means losing future citizens, professionals, caregivers, and leaders, which affects the country’s balanced social and community growth

Laws and Government Initiatives Against Female Infanticide in India

India has recognised the seriousness of female infanticide and taken legal steps to prevent it. The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994, strictly bans sex determination before birth to prevent sex-selective abortions. Violators can face imprisonment and heavy fines.

Additionally, schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), launched in 2015, aim to improve the number of girls in the population and encourage their education. The programme involves coordinated efforts from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Ministry of Education.

Other schemes like Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana encourage financial savings for girls’ future education and marriage, promoting a positive environment for the girl child’s growth and well-being.

Role of Awareness, Education & Community Involvement

Legal measures alone cannot eliminate this practice. Real change requires transforming how people think about gender and valuing children equally. Awareness programmes, community discussions, and education campaigns are crucial in altering age-old beliefs.

When families understand the importance of treating all children equally and realise that girls can contribute to society just as boys can, harmful practices begin to fade. Education is a strong tool here, and it empowers communities to question harmful traditions and adopt new, progressive beliefs.

NGOs, schools, social groups, and local leaders have the power to drive awareness programmes, conduct workshops, and promote positive stories about girls excelling in various fields.

Also Read: Crimes Against Children in India

How CRY India is Combating Female Infanticide

As a child rights organisation, CRY India works tirelessly to protect children from harmful practices like female infanticide. The organisation partners with local communities, grassroots groups, and volunteers to address issues of gender discrimination and child protection.

CRY focuses on strengthening community support systems and educating families about the value of girl children. It promotes access to healthcare, education, and legal protection for girls in vulnerable regions. CRY also works alongside government departments to ensure the effective execution of child protection laws and schemes.

Rather than providing direct material support, CRY facilitates an environment where children can thrive, encouraging families and communities to protect their children actively.

How You Can Support CRY in Saving the Girl Child

Ending female infanticide requires the involvement of every individual. You can support CRY’s initiatives by contributing financially, participating in awareness campaigns, volunteering for community programmes, or simply spreading the message about valuing every child.

Together, communities can build a future where every child, regardless of gender, is given equal opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed.

FAQs

Why is female infanticide still practised in India?

Female infanticide continues in some parts of India due to longstanding cultural preferences for sons, financial concerns related to dowry, poverty, and lack of awareness about gender equality. However, ongoing government schemes and awareness efforts are helping reduce this harmful practice.

What role does education play in preventing female infanticide?

Education transforms mindsets. It helps families and communities understand the value of girls and challenge outdated beliefs. Educated communities are better equipped to reject harmful customs and promote equal opportunities for every child.

How is CRY helping in the fight against female infanticide?

CRY India works with grassroots organisations and communities to raise awareness about child rights, promote gender equality, and strengthen child protection systems. We facilitate programmes that improve education, healthcare access, and legal protection for girls in vulnerable areas.

What are the social consequences of a declining female population?

A declining female population leads to an unbalanced gender ratio, causing problems like increased violence, trafficking, and difficulties in marriage markets. It also results in the loss of potential societal contributors, affecting balanced social and economic growth.

How can individuals contribute to ending female infanticide?

Anyone can help by spreading awareness, supporting organisations like CRY India, participating in community events, reporting violations, and educating others about the importance of valuing girls and boys equally.