Child sex ratio has been declining in all the states, except Kerala, due to

1. Cultural practices prioritise son over daughter.

For instance, the belief that it is only the son who can perform the last rites, that lineage and inheritance runs through the male line, sons will look after parents in old age, men are bread winners, etc.

2. Marriage customs are expensive for the bride’s family

Exorbitant dowry demand is a reason for female foeticide/infanticide. Moreover, small family norm and easy availability of sex determination tests may be a catalyst in the declining child sex ratio.