Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 30: India has recorded a steady improvement in its sex ratio at birth, rising from 904 in 2017–19 to 917 in 2021–23, according to a new government report that points to better survival rates for female children.
The findings were released in the publication “Women and Men in India 2025: Selected Indicators and Data” by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation in Bhubaneswar. The report compiles gender-disaggregated data across multiple sectors to provide a clearer picture of changing gender dynamics and development trends in the country.
The report highlights a consistent decline in infant mortality rates for both boys and girls between 2008 and 2023, indicating improvements in healthcare and child survival. In education, the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education has also shown progress. For females, it increased from 28.5 to 30.2, while for males it rose from 28.3 to 28.9 between 2021–22 and 2022–23.
Workforce participation has seen notable gains as well. Labour force participation among individuals aged 15 and above increased for both genders, with rural women recording the most significant rise—from 37.5 percent to 45.9 percent between 2022 and 2025.
The report also points to a sharp increase in women holding managerial roles. While the number of men in such positions grew by 73.80 percent between 2017 and 2025, the increase among women was even higher at 102.54 percent during the same period.
According to the ministry, the publication brings together key indicators related to population, education, health, economic participation, decision-making, and issues such as violence against women. It draws on data from multiple government departments and organisations to present a comprehensive overview.
By analysing socio-economic trends and highlighting emerging patterns, the report aims to support policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in designing more inclusive and gender-responsive policies. It also includes detailed metadata for 50 key indicators, explaining definitions, sources, and methodologies, and is available on the ministry’s official website.