Rohtak Grapples with Deepening Sex Ratio Crisis as 43 Villages Record Alarming Figures
Rohtak, widely recognized as Haryana's political capital and a prominent educational hub with three government universities and numerous colleges, is confronting a persistent and troubling challenge regarding its sex ratio at birth (SRB). Despite concerted efforts over the past three years, the district has consistently failed to surpass the critical 900 mark, highlighting a significant public health concern.
Disturbing Statistical Trends Reveal Steady Decline
Official data paints a grim picture of Rohtak's SRB trajectory. In 2021, the district registered a relatively healthier SRB of 945. However, this figure declined to 934 in 2022 and experienced a sharp drop to 883 in 2023. A marginal improvement was noted in 2024, with the SRB rising to 888, yet the district remained below the 900 threshold. The situation reached a critical point in 2025, with Rohtak recording an SRB of 898, narrowly missing its target by just two points and remaining substantially lower than the state's average SRB of 923.
The most alarming revelation is that 43 villages within the district recorded an SRB of less than 800 in 2025. This list includes villages such as Nasir Pur, Shimli, Singhpura KH, Kutana, Indergarh, Garhi, Patwapur, Pilana, Kanheli, Atail, Asthal Bohar, Karontha, Chandi, Kisrenti, Makrauli Kalan, Baland, Sunaria Kalan, Bhaisru Kalan, Chamaria, Ghillor Khurd, Balam, Kharak Jatan, Nandal, and Sundana, among others.
Deputy Commissioner Sachin Gupta Implements Stringent Measures
Taking serious cognizance of the deteriorating situation, Deputy Commissioner Sachin Gupta has issued strict directives to health officials to address the crisis comprehensively. The mandated actions include:
- Compulsory registration of every pregnant woman in the district.
- Strict monitoring of all expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy.
- Enhanced surveillance of ultrasound centers to prevent misuse.
- Achieving 100 per cent immunisation coverage for pregnant women and children.
Gupta specifically instructed officials to conduct regular inspections of ultrasound facilities, ensuring that only pregnant women linked with an ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) ID undergo ultrasound examinations. He emphasized the strict implementation of a reverse tracking system to curb any potential violations and prevent gender-based discrimination.
Holistic Health Initiatives and Digital Healthcare Push
While reviewing broader maternal and child health indicators, the DC called for intensified efforts to further reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. Key focus areas include tackling anaemia among pregnant women through timely supplementation and diligent follow-up, ensuring 100 per cent institutional deliveries, and paying special attention to the complete immunisation of children.
Anaemia screening is being conducted in coordination with the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the Education Department, with assured supplementation for pregnant women. Gupta highlighted Rohtak's progress in digital and preventive healthcare, noting that the district is leading the state in providing zero-dose vaccination to newborns.
"Rohtak is steadily emerging as a model district in digital and preventive healthcare. We are decisively moving from treatment-centric systems to a health-assurance approach that guarantees dignity, transparency, and accountability for all citizens," stated Deputy Commissioner Sachin Gupta.
Further initiatives under the Man Saarthi programme include setting up wellness corners in schools and primary health centers, operational tele-psychiatry services, and a functional District Mental Health Helpline (8295474838) available from 9 am to 3 pm daily.
The combined strategy of strict enforcement, enhanced monitoring, and expanded healthcare services aims to reverse the declining sex ratio trend and restore health equity in Rohtak district.
