Sex ratio is one of the most significant socio-demographic indicators in population studies, as it directly influences marriage patterns, fertility, labour force composition, and mortality differentials between males and females. The present study examines spatial variations in sex ratio across different physiographic regions namely the hilly region, foothill region, and plain river basin region of the Kumbhi River Basin in Kolhapur District, Maharashtra. Village-level data from the Census of India 2011 were used to analyse regional and intra-regional variations in sex ratio and to assess the influence of geographical, social, and economic factors. The findings reveal pronounced regional disparities in sex ratio, closely associated with physiography, migration patterns, and levels of socio-economic development. The study highlights that relatively remote and less developed regions exhibit comparatively balanced sex ratios, whereas economically developed and accessible plains show lower sex ratios. The results have important implications for regional population planning and inclusive social development.
Ravindra et al. (Fri,) studied this question.