Published: 3 October 2026 | Official update: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare / PIB, 1 October 2026
At a Glance
- The Union Health Ministry held a national workshop on strengthening implementation of the Pre-conception and Pre-natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994.
- Representatives from all 36 States and Union Territories participated.
- The workshop focused on regulatory compliance, stronger enforcement, digital governance and action against sex-selection practices.
- The Ministry reported that the national Sex Ratio at Birth has improved from 898 to 918 females per 1,000 males.
- Officials stressed that enforcement must be accompanied by sustained information, education and communication efforts supporting the equal value of the girl child.
What happened?
The Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare organised a National Workshop in New Delhi on 1 October 2026 to review and strengthen implementation of the PC&PNDT Act. The meeting included representatives from States and Union Territories, senior Health Ministry officials and representatives of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Why the PC&PNDT Act matters
The PC&PNDT Act regulates the use of prenatal diagnostic techniques and prohibits sex selection. Its implementation involves registration and monitoring of facilities using relevant diagnostic technologies, maintenance of prescribed records and enforcement against prohibited practices.
The national workshop placed particular emphasis on consistent regulatory compliance and more effective enforcement across jurisdictions.
Digital governance and online violations
The participation of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre is significant because promotion or facilitation of prohibited sex-selection services can involve online platforms and digital communication. The workshop therefore also addressed the role of digital governance and coordination between health authorities and enforcement agencies.
Sex Ratio at Birth: reported improvement
According to the Ministry’s official release, the national Sex Ratio at Birth has increased from 898 to 918 females per 1,000 males. The Ministry presented this as progress while also emphasizing the need for continued implementation of the law and sustained public awareness.
What this means for healthcare facilities
Facilities and professionals covered by the PC&PNDT framework should ensure that registration, record-keeping, display requirements and other statutory obligations are followed accurately. Administrative teams should also ensure that records are complete and readily available for inspection according to applicable rules and state-level procedures.
This update does not alter the text of the law by itself; it reflects a national implementation and enforcement review. Any specific compliance decision should be based on the Act, Rules, subsequent amendments, court directions and instructions issued by the appropriate authority.
Key takeaway
The Centre’s current focus is not only on enforcement but also on improving digital oversight and coordination while continuing behaviour-change communication aimed at preventing sex selection and gender discrimination.
Official Source
MedBodh note: This article is an informational summary of an official Government of India release and is not legal advice. Healthcare establishments should follow the applicable Act, Rules and directions of the competent authority.