Internal migration refers to the movement of people within a country. It involves relocating from one area to another for reasons such as employment, education, or living conditions. This type of migration is distinct from international migration, which involves crossing national borders.
Constitutional Provisions
In India, Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees the right to migrate for work. This right protects citizens from discrimination based on birthplace and ensures equal employment opportunities. The central government oversees interstate migration as per the seventh schedule of the Constitution.
Statistics on Internal Migration
According to the 2011 Census, India had 456 million internal migrants, representing 38% of the population. This was an increase from 315 million in 2001. In 2011, 99% of migration was internal, with only 1% being international. Tamil Nadu has the highest number of interstate migrants, while states like Jharkhand and Bihar have lower rates.
Benefits of Internal Migration
- Labour Market Efficiency: Internal migration helps match labour demand with supply, improving job allocation.
- Economic Growth: Migrants contribute to the economy, often filling labour shortages in various sectors.
- Wage Improvement: Migration can lead to increased wages in rural areas as labour demand rises.
- Demographic Dividend: Migrant workers can enhance economic productivity when provided with quality jobs and social protections.
- Circular Migration: Many migrants move temporarily for work, contributing to the GDP.
- Social Remittances: Migrants can share cultural knowledge, promoting social cohesion.
- Sustainable Development: Internal migration supports efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 8 by encouraging inclusive economic growth.
Challenges Faced by Internal Migrants
Internal migrants encounter several obstacles:
- Lack of Social Security: Many migrants lack adequate health benefits and social protections.
- Housing Issues: Access to affordable housing and basic amenities is often limited in urban areas.
- Political Exclusion: Migrants may struggle to exercise their voting rights.
- Cultural Barriers: Language and cultural differences can hinder integration.
- Exploitation: Migrants are often vulnerable to discrimination and wage theft.
- Gender Violence: Women migrants face unique challenges, including harassment and lower wages.
- Health Risks: Poor living conditions can lead to health hazards.
- Xenophobia: Migrants may face hostility in their new locations.
- Natural Disasters: Migrants are often displaced due to environmental crises.
Challenges in Addressing Migration Issues
Several systemic challenges impede policy development:
- No Formal Policy Framework: Lack of a comprehensive strategy for internal migrants hampers effective support.
- Coordination Issues: States often fail to share information about migrants.
- Invisible Workforce: Many migrants are not recognised by protective laws.
- Informal Employment: A portion of migrant work occurs outside formal arrangements.
- Data Deficiency: Absence of reliable data makes it difficult to address migrant needs.
- Employer Liability: Employers often evade responsibility for migrant workers’ rights.
Government Policies for Migrant Protection
The Government of India has initiated several policies to support internal migrants:
- Working Group on Migration: Established by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation in 2015 to improve migrant integration.
- Interstate Migrant Workmen’s Act: The primary legislation governing migrant workers, although it is limited in scope.
- National Migrant Labour Policy: Drafted in 2021 to address migrant issues comprehensively.
- One Nation One Ration Card: This scheme allows migrants to access food subsidies nationwide.
- Affordable Rental Housing Complexes: Aimed at providing housing for low-income migrants.
- e-Shram Portal: A digital platform for unorganised workers to access welfare schemes.
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: A housing initiative for urban poor, including migrants.
Nature of Internal Migration
Internal migration in India is diverse. It includes various forms:
- Rural to Urban Movement: The most prevalent form, driven by the search for better opportunities.
- Economic Migration: People migrate for better job prospects, particularly in agriculture and industry.
- Seasonal Migration: Workers move temporarily for agricultural seasons or short-term jobs.
- Interstate and Intrastate Migration: Movements occur both within and between states for better living conditions.
- Return Migration: Individuals return home due to family reasons or economic changes.
- Displacement Due to Disasters: Migration often results from natural calamities.
- Educational and Marital Migration: Students and individuals may move for education or marriage.
Current Challenges in Internal Migration
Internal migration poses several ongoing challenges:
- Economic Vulnerability: Many migrants end up in low-paying jobs with poor conditions.
- Poor Living Conditions: Overcrowded slums often lack basic services.
- Social Exclusion: Migrants face discrimination, affecting their integration.
- Legal Barriers: Lack of proper identification limits access to social security.
- Urban Infrastructure Strain: Rapid migration can overwhelm city resources.
- Impact on Rural Areas: Out-migration can lead to depopulation and economic decline.
Government Initiatives to Support Migrants
The government has launched several initiatives to assist migrant workers:
- PMJJBY: A life insurance scheme for migrant workers.
- PM SVANidhi: Microloans for street vendors and migrants to support business growth.
- PM-SYM: A pension scheme for workers aged 18-40.
- eShram Portal: A registration platform for unorganised workers.
- ONORC Scheme: Facilitates access to food subsidies for migrants.
- PMAY: Aims to provide affordable housing for urban migrants.
Future Directions for Internal Migration
To improve the situation for internal migrants, several steps can be taken:
- Skill Development: Enhance training programs to boost employability.
- Social Security: Strengthen welfare schemes for portable access across states.
- Legal Protections: Establish a national registry for migrant workers to ensure their rights.
- Rural Development: Create job opportunities in rural areas to mitigate urban migration pressures.
