Bihar Health Minister Assures Progress on Sex Ratio

Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey claimed that the sex ratio in Bihar is an improvement over many Indian states. Responding to a challenge on recent figures showing a decline, Pandey cited updated statistics and government efforts to combat sex determination and female foeticide, emphasizing empowerment initiatives for women.

Bihar's Health Minister, Mangal Pandey, asserted that the state's sex ratio is significantly better than many others in India, countering claims of a decline to 882 girls per 1,000 boys in 2023-24. He cited updated data showing a ratio of 908.

During a Budget session exchange, Pandey addressed CPI(ML) Liberation MLC Shashi Yadav's concerns over the reported dip, emphasizing government vigilance under the PCPNDT Act against sex determination practices and female foeticide.

Highlighting initiatives like 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' and 'Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana,' Pandey stressed the government's commitment to supporting and empowering women, from birth to marriage.

(With inputs from agencies.)