Bangalore, India

Indian law forbids disclosure of a child’s gender before birth because of the strong preference for boys. Despite this, there are 109 boys for every 100 girls born in India (UNDP). Indian pregnancy traditions involve a celebration for the expectant mother in the seventh month where she is showered with blessings, gifts and prayers. It is considered inauspicious to buy baby clothes prior to the birth. With only 47% of births attended by a skilled health professional and other weak maternal indicators, India ranks 118 on the Mother’s Index.