The population recently passed one billion

The practice of killing young girls has long been recognised as a problem in India and China - both strongly patriarchal societies.

It is particularly strong in rural India and is often tied to the tradition of dowry because of which girls are seen as an economic liability.

Selective abortion

Though illegal, selective abortions of female foetuses are on the increase in India, according to the UNPF.

Sex ratio

Women per 1,000 men Nationally - 960 Kerala - 1036 Punjab - 882 Rajasthan - 910 Tamil Nadu - 974 Uttar Pradesh - 879

Female infant mortality figures in India are 40% higher than male.

The numbers of female infant deaths is lower in the educated south, particularly Kerala, where there are more women than men.

India has added 2.6 million people to its total population, since it officially crossed the one billion mark on 11 May.

Its population is growing by 30 new births a minute, 1,815 per hour and 1.3m every month.

UN tribute

But under its new national population policy, India is aiming at a reduced its fertility rate.

Growing numbers

Total population 1,002,600,000 30 births a minute 1,815 per hour 1.3m a month 15.7m a year

The UNPF paid tribute to the seriousness with which the government was setting about the task.

In a statement to mark World Population Day, India's Health Minister Dr CP Thakur said unchecked growth of the population meant that more people were denied the benefits of development.