India is one of the few countries experiencing falling child sex ratio. Which among the following statements could be the major reasons behind this phenomenon? 1. High female infant mortality (relative to male infant mortality) 2. Female foeticide.

- Statement 1 is a reason: While biologically females tend to have higher survival rates than males, societal neglect and discrimination can lead to higher mortality rates for female infants and young children compared to males due to factors like inadequate nutrition, healthcare, and caregiving. This is sometimes referred to as female infanticide or post-natal discrimination. - Statement 2 is a major reason: Female foeticide, or sex-selective abortion, is the most significant factor contributing to the adverse and falling child sex ratio in India. The preference for sons leads to the illegal practice of identifying the sex of the fetus and aborting female ones. Both these factors result in fewer girls surviving in the 0-6 age group compared to boys, causing the child sex ratio to decline.