In which Indian state is the sex ratio (number of females per 1000 males) more than 1000 according to census data?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Kerala

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Sex ratio is an important demographic indicator that shows the number of females per 1000 males in a population. In many parts of India, the sex ratio has historically been below 1000, indicating fewer females than males. However, a few states have managed to achieve a sex ratio above 1000, meaning there are more females than males. This question tests whether the learner knows which state among the options has a sex ratio greater than 1000 according to census data.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Sex ratio is defined as number of females per 1000 males.
  • Options listed are four large southern states: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
  • The question asks which state has a sex ratio of more than 1000.
  • We use standard census data known from widely cited tables.
  • The question refers to the general pattern where Kerala stands out with a higher sex ratio.


Concept / Approach:
Kerala is well known for its high human development indicators, which include high literacy, better healthcare and a favourable sex ratio. For multiple census years, Kerala has recorded a sex ratio above 1000, meaning there are more women than men in its population. In contrast, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have sex ratios below 1000 or closer to 1000 but still not above it for the relevant census periods often discussed in exams. Therefore, the approach is to recall this widely known fact and match it with the correct option.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that sex ratio greater than 1000 means more females than males in a given population. Step 2: Remember that Kerala has long been cited as a state with a sex ratio above 1000 in many census reports. Step 3: Compare this with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, which historically have sex ratios below 1000 or around it. Step 4: Conclude that Kerala is the only state among the options whose sex ratio clearly exceeds 1000. Step 5: Choose Kerala as the correct answer.


Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, one can refer to widely quoted census figures where Kerala often shows sex ratios around 1050 or slightly higher females per 1000 males, while Tamil Nadu is closer to 996 or similar values in many census years, and Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka typically remain below 1000. Kerala is frequently highlighted in textbooks and articles as a model state for social indicators, including sex ratio. This repeated emphasis in multiple sources supports the conclusion that Kerala is the only correct choice here.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Andhra Pradesh: This state has improved its sex ratio over time but has generally not crossed the 1000 mark in the census years most often referenced. Karnataka: The sex ratio in Karnataka remains below 1000, so it cannot be the correct answer to a question asking for a value above 1000. Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu has a relatively better sex ratio compared to some other states, yet it still usually falls slightly short of 1000. Any blank option: Not applicable because the question clearly expects a specific state name and Kerala fits that requirement.


Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes assume that all southern states have sex ratios above 1000 because of their relatively better social development indicators. This leads to confusion between Kerala and Tamil Nadu in particular. Another pitfall is to forget that crossing 1000 is a specific threshold and that even a value like 995, although high compared to some states, is still not above 1000. Regular revision of key demographic facts, especially about Kerala's exceptional position, helps avoid such mistakes.



Final Answer:
The Indian state whose sex ratio is more than 1000 females per 1000 males is Kerala.


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