The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare convened a National-Level Sensitization Meeting to reinforce the implementation of the Pre-Conception & Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994 (PC&PNDT Act). The meeting sought to align central and state efforts in preventing sex-selective practices and ensuring stricter compliance of the Act, especially in health facilities and diagnostic centres.
The conference addressed gaps in monitoring, capacity building of Appropriate Authorities, data reporting, and inspection protocols. It also emphasised awareness campaigns and training for healthcare providers, civil society, and local governance agents to detect and deter illegal prenatal sex determination.
This initiative reinforces India’s legal and ethical commitment to gender equity, especially in birth sex ratio. Stronger enforcement mechanisms, including data audits, inter-departmental coordination, and public accountability, are vital to reduce sex ratio imbalances.
What is the PC&PNDT Act? → Enacted in 1994, the PC&PNDT Act prohibits sex selection before or after conception. Its aim is to curb female foeticide by regulating use of prenatal diagnostic techniques and mandating registration, record keeping, and legal oversight of clinics and diagnostic centers.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can states operationalise real-time monitoring and accountability of diagnostic centres to enforce PC&PNDT compliance more effectively?
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