In India, inbreeding is primarily measured through the prevalence of consanguineous marriages (marriages between close relatives, typically first or second cousins, or uncle-niece), as these are the main drivers of elevated inbreeding coefficients at the population level. Data from national surveys like the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) and academic studies show that consanguineous marriages occur across religious groups, but rates vary by religion, region, socioeconomic factors, and cultural norms. Overall national prevalence is around 9-10% based on recent estimates, with higher rates in southern states (up to 23%) and lower in northern and northeastern regions (3-10%).
Consanguineous marriages are more common among Indian Muslims than Hindus, though both groups show regional variations and overall declines over time. Key findings from aggregated data:
- Muslims: National rates range from 15-22% in studies spanning the 1990s to 2010s, with first-cousin marriages bein