Explanations:The sex-ratio is a critical demographic indicator that reflects the number of females per 1000 males in a given population. It is influenced by a variety of socio-economic and cultural factors, including migration patterns, access to healthcare, and cultural practices related to gender. In the context of Kerala, the sex-ratio can vary significantly across different districts due to these factors.
Idukki district, which is known for its hilly terrain and significant tribal population, has the lowest sex-ratio among the listed districts. This can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the district has a high level of out-migration, particularly of males, who often move to urban areas or other states for employment opportunities. This can lead to a higher proportion of females remaining in the district, but the overall sex-ratio can still be lower due to other factors such as cultural practices and access to healthcare.
Other districts like Kasargode, Wayanad, and Ernakulam have higher sex-ratios compared to Idukki. Kasargode, located in the northern part of Kerala, has a relatively higher sex-ratio due to better socio-economic conditions and cultural norms that support gender equality. Wayanad, another district with a significant tribal population, also has a higher sex-ratio, reflecting better access to healthcare and education. Ernakulam, being an urban district, has the highest sex-ratio among the listed options, which can be attributed to urbanization and better socio-economic conditions that promote gender balance.
Understanding the sex-ratio in different districts of Kerala is important for policymakers and researchers to identify areas that need intervention to improve gender balance and address socio-economic disparities. It is also a crucial piece of information for competitive examinations that test knowledge of socio-economic indicators and demographic data.