We have indeed come a long way but unfortunately towards creating an imbalance in our society. According to the report of United Nation Population Fund, Key findings include: A national decline from 945 to 927 in the number of girls per 1,000 boys aged 0-6 between 1991 and 2001. 1981-91 census shows 1.37 crore more boys than girls. 2001 census shows there are 42 crore children, with boys outnumbering girls by 1.98 crores. A grave situation in states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat where the ratio has drastically declined to fewer than 800 girls for every 1,000 boys. A low child sex ratio in certain districts, including the South West District of Delhi, which are “amongst the most prosperous in the country”. State 1991 2001 Punjab 875 793 Haryana 879 820 Gujarat 928 878 Delhi 915 865 Himachal 951 897 Experts predict that if the trend continues, and reaches the dangerous levels of Haryana or Punjab, the Indian society will have to grapple with severe problems including spiraling crime, trafficking of women and related social problems. Killing of girls by putting a sand bag on their face or by throttling her within hours of being born is not a rare phenomenon. Besides, the practice of pre-birth-elimination of female foetuses is one of the major factors responsible for this decline. And the cause of more women resorting to this practice is because of their preference for sons. In Indian context sons are preferred as they are considered a source of support during old age and for performing religious rites at the time of cremation and subsequently. Preference for sons shall not disappear until girls are empowered as much as boys. Empowering the girl child through education is an indispensable tool to curb the growing menace of gender inequality, declining sex ratio, and discriminatory treatment given to women in India. Empowered woman is strong enough to stand as a support for her family and community at large. She further contributes to the prospects of next generation. for More Logon to Gurumaa