Which of the following factors is not responsible for decline in the child sex ratio in India?

higher maternal mortality rates as compared to developed countries

The correct answer is Option 3: higher maternal mortality rates as compared to developed countries

Maternal mortality affects women of reproductive age and may influence the overall sex ratio, but it does not directly explain the decline in the child sex ratio (0–6 years). The decline in the child sex ratio is mainly linked to discriminatory practices against girls, including sex-selective abortions, female infanticide, and neglect of girl children. Moreover, maternal mortality rates have been declining over time, whereas the child sex ratio has continued to worsen, making maternal mortality an unlikely explanation for the decline in the child sex ratio.