Karwar: The stark difference in sex ratio between males and females is a pervasive issue nationwide, with its detrimental social impacts becoming increasingly apparent. In response to these challenges, campaigns such as "Stop Female Feticide, Save the Girl Child" are being conducted across the country.

Amidst these concerns, Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district stands out as a beacon of hope, boasting a sex ratio of 1016 among children born up to December in the taluk. However, the overall sex ratio for the district stands at a modest 967 during the same period.

In Bhatkal taluk, from April to December 2023, 986 boys and 1002 girls were born, resulting in a sex ratio of 1016. Similarly, from April 2022 to March 2023, a total of 2940 children, including 1469 boys and 1471 girls, were born with a sex ratio of 1001.

Following Bhatkal, Yellapur taluk records a sex ratio of 1000, with 197 births of both genders reported until December. Kumta taluk follows closely with 955 male and 952 female births, resulting in a sex ratio of 997. Conversely, the lowest sex ratio in the district is observed in Karwar and Mundgod, where the ratio stands at 869.

Analyzing statistics from 2018-19 in Uttara Kannada district reveals fluctuations in the sex ratio of children born during this period. In 2018-19, 10,261 boys and 9,956 girls were born, yielding a sex ratio of 970. Subsequent years witnessed varying ratios: 965 in 2019-20, 951 in 2020-21, 950 in 2021-22, and 951 in 2022-23. Notably, in Bhatkal taluk, the sex ratio increased from 938 in 2018-19 to 1001 in 2022-23. The current sex ratio for the district stands at 967, indicating positive progress.

To address gender disparities, Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner Gangubai Maankar stated that numerous initiatives have been implemented, including programs celebrating the birth of female children and honoring girls' achievements. Additionally, awareness campaigns and training workshops are conducted to educate officials on preventing female foeticide and complying with prenatal gender detection laws. Vigilance is maintained across 71 scanning centers in the district to prevent illegal prenatal sex determination, with surprise inspections regularly conducted.

She also highlighted efforts to safeguard maternal and infant health, with dedicated officers prioritizing the well-being of pregnant women and newborns. All relevant authorities are directed to actively contribute to improving the district's sex ratio, underscoring the commitment to gender equality and the community's welfare.