Shimla, 25 February — Himachal Pradesh recorded its highest sex ratio at birth (SRB) in 30 years, reaching 964 girls per 1,000 boys in 2024, according to the Department of Health and Family Welfare. The figure marks an increase from 947 in 2023, surpassing the previous high of 949 in 2021.
Director of Health Services Dr. Parkash Chand Daroch attributed the rise to coordinated efforts across departments and initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Shagun Yojana. “Consistent implementation of welfare schemes and awareness programs has contributed to this positive trend,” he mentioned.
The state’s lowest SRB was recorded in 2001 at 856. A steady improvement followed, especially after 2015, when birth and death registrations were digitized, barring minor declines in 2019 and 2022.
Among the state’s 12 districts, Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, and Kullu reported more female births than male in 2024. Chamba also saw an increase, with its SRB rising from 956 to 980. A health official noted that limited access to ultrasound facilities in tribal and remote areas may have played a role in discouraging sex-selective abortions.
However, Una district recorded the lowest SRB at 918, down from 934 in 2023. Sirmaur also saw a significant decline, dropping from 1,006 to 939. Una Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sanjeev Verma suggested the district’s border location as a possible factor. “Despite strict monitoring of ultrasound clinics within Una, people can easily access facilities across the state border,” he stated.
Dr. Verma added that the department plans to intensify awareness campaigns at the panchayat level. “A few years ago, Una’s SRB was below 900. We have made progress, and further efforts will be made through sensitization programs and stricter enforcement,” he mentioned.
