Correct Option
The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Child Sex Ratio (CSR) is a critical demographic indicator in India, reflecting the social health and status of the girl child. It is measured through the decadal Census conducted by the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Child Sex Ratio is defined as the number of females per 1,000 males in the age group of 0-6 years. This differs from the overall Sex Ratio, which accounts for the entire population regardless of age.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: According to Census 2011, the national Child Sex Ratio declined to 919 from 927 in Census 2001. It did not improve to 950. This decline indicates a worrying trend regarding the preference for male children and the prevalence of sex-selective practices.
- Statement 3 is Correct: While the state-level averages for Haryana (834) and Punjab (846) were above 800 in 2011, the ratio fell below 800 in specific districts within these states. For instance, districts like Jhajjar (774) and Mahendragarh (778) in Haryana recorded alarming figures below 800. In the context of the options provided, eliminating Statement 2 validates this statement.
Key Takeaway: The Child Sex Ratio (0-6 years) in India stands at 919 (Census 2011), marking a decline from 2001, with the lowest ratios observed in states like Haryana and Punjab.