A number of recent studies [A] [D] have documented evidence to show that couples have a decided preference for a particular sex combination of children. For example, in many South Asian countries, including India, there is a strong preference for sons over daughters.

In India, as per census 1981, around 11 million children in the age group 5-14 are in the

In recent years, fertility has become an important subject of inquiry for economists. The decision to have children and their number and timing involve trade-offs which constrain the purchase and consumption of durables and other household items vying for the family's scarce resources.

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is a comprehensive legislative measure enacted in India to safeguard children from sexual abuse and exploitation.