With reference to the demographic transition and change in women's lives, consider the following statements:

Question

The decline in mortality rates in India has led to a decrease in the need for large families.

The preference for sons in Indian society has resulted in sex-selective abortion and neglect of sick daughters.

As fertility rates declined, women in India had fewer opportunities for education and employment.

Accessible and affordable childcare is crucial for enhancing women's labor force participation.

How many statements given above are correct?

(a) Only one statement

(b) Only two statements

(c) Only three statements

(d) All four statements

Answer 1

Answer: (c) Only three statements

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct. The decline in mortality rates in India has reduced the need for larger families as parents no longer need to have multiple children to ensure survival.

Statement 2 is correct. The preference for sons in Indian society has led to the practice of sex-selective abortion and neglect of sick daughters, resulting in a decline in the number of girls per 100 boys.

Statement 3 is incorrect. As fertility rates declined, women in India had more opportunities for education and employment, not fewer.

Statement 4 is correct. Accessible and affordable childcare is crucial for enhancing women's labor force participation, as demonstrated by studies in India and China.