In Indian demographic statistics, the sex ratio is conventionally measured in which of the following ways?

Introduction / Context:
The concept of sex ratio is central to population studies and social statistics in India. It is frequently used in Census reports, demographic surveys, and discussions on gender balance. Understanding the correct definition of sex ratio is important because it helps in interpreting data on gender composition and in assessing social issues such as gender discrimination, female foeticide, and migration patterns. This question tests your familiarity with the standard way in which sex ratio is expressed in official Indian statistics.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The term being defined is "sex ratio" in India.
• The options provide different possible ways of expressing the ratio between males and females.
• The context is official demographic usage, especially Census of India.
• No special regional variation is implied; the question is about the national convention.

Concept / Approach:
In demographic terminology, sex ratio can be expressed in various ways, but each country often adopts a standard convention. In India, the sex ratio is defined as the number of females per 1,000 males in the population. This convention is followed consistently in Census documents and demographic analyses. By contrast, some other countries may define sex ratio as the number of males per 100 females, but that is not the Indian practice. Therefore, the correct option must match "number of females per thousand males."

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
If you recall headlines about the sex ratio in India, they often say things like "sex ratio improves to 943 females per 1,000 males." This phrasing clearly shows that females are in the numerator and 1,000 males in the base. Also, you will almost never see Indian demographic reports talk about "males per thousand females," which confirms that the officially accepted definition is the other way around. Checking any Census table on sex ratio would verify this understanding.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Number of males per thousand females: This reverses the convention and is not how Indian Census data present sex ratio.
• Number of males per hundred females: Uses males in the numerator and a base of 100, which does not match the Indian standard.
• Number of females per hundred males: Although closer, it uses a base of 100, not 1,000, and so does not reflect the exact official definition.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to assume that any ratio can be expressed either way, so the direction does not matter. However, in examinations, the accepted definition must match the official standard. Another pitfall is to mix up per 100 and per 1,000 due to mental shortcuts. To avoid this, remember a simple rule: in India, sex ratio = females per 1,000 males. Fixing this phrase in memory will help you answer quickly and accurately in the exam.

Final Answer:
In India, the sex ratio is measured as the Number of females per thousand males.