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an obvious result. The sharp rise in sex crimes in Delhi have been attributed to the unequal sex ratio. ü Prevention of Sex Determination ü Before conducting any prenatal diagnostic procedure, the medical practitioner must obtain a written consent from the pregnant woman in a local language that she understands. Prenatal tests may be performed in various specified circumstances, including risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the case of women over 35, and genetic diseases evident in the family history of the couple. ü ü For maintaining of ultrasound and other diagnostic facilities, the presence of individual outside the medical profession, in particular those involved with human rights, would have helped to prevent fraternity bias – an unwillingness to bring medical colleagues to account. ü tices such as dowry, and ensuring strict implementation of existing legislation. Ensuring the development of and access to good healthcare services. Inculcating a strong ethical code of conduct among medical professionals, beginning with their training as undergraduates. Wide publicisation in the media of the scale and seriousness of the practice. NGOs should take a key role in educating the public on this matter. Regular assessment of indicators of statistics of women in society, such as sex ratio, and female mortality, literacy, and economic participation. ‘Equality Empowers’! As per UNFPA, societies become more prosperous and families healthier, where women have equal access to income, assets and services. When both men and women are able to participate equally and exercise their rights fully, the world benefits having a healthier society. The empowerment of women and strengthening of women’s rights through campaigning against prac- 17