**Migration in India: A Comprehensive Overview**
Migration has always been a significant aspect of human societies, profoundly shaping demographics and influencing socio-economic dynamics. This article provides a substantive overview of the various aspects of migration in India, underpinned by comprehensive insights sourced from the Migration in India Report 2020-21.
Understanding Migration
Migration, as described by the International Organization for Migration, denotes population movement across international borders or within a nation, away from one’s habitual place of residence. Examining shifts in migration scale, direction, demography and frequency can lead to effective policies, programmes and operational responses.
Migration can be either voluntary or forced, catalyzed by factors such as economic challenges, extreme poverty, conflict situations, or even disasters. In recent times, the Covid-19 pandemic has also become a major cause of migration.
Factors Influencing Migration
Migration is driven by various “push” and “pull” factors. Push factors, such as economic or social reasons, compel a person to leave their place of origin. Pull factors, like job opportunities or better living conditions, attract migrants to a specific destination.
Statistical Snapshot of Migration in India
According to the 2011 Census, internal migrants in India numbered at 45.36 crore, constituting 37% of the country’s population. The annual net migrant flows amounted to about 1% of the working-age population.
The Migration in India Report 2020-21 revealed that 0.7% of the nation’s population was recorded as ‘temporary visitors’ during the July 2020-June 2021 period, with over 84% of these moving due to the pandemic. The all-India migration rate was 28.9% during this period. Interestingly, females recorded a higher share of migration rate at 47.9%.
Significance of Migration
Migration plays a key role in meeting the demand and supply of labour, enhancing migrants’ knowledge and skills, and improving their quality of life. Migrants also send remittances back home, positively impacting their native places. Socially, migration promotes cultural exchange and fosters greater equality and tolerance.
Challenges Implicated in Migration
However, migration isn’t without challenges. Marginalised sections often struggle to integrate into new environments. Migrants also grapple with social and psychological issues such as non-acceptance by host communities and feelings of homesickness. Moreover, they are often excluded from political rights and social benefits due to document-related issues.
Government Initiatives Addressing Migration
To address these challenges, several governmental initiatives have been launched. In 2021, NITI Aayog, along with a working subgroup of officials and members of civil society, prepared a draft National Migrant Labour policy. The expansion of the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) project and introduction of the Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHC), PM Garib Kalyan Yojna scheme and e-Shram portal are other noteworthy steps.
Despite these efforts, migration continues to be a distressing experience for many in India. Furthering our understanding of this complex issue and devising comprehensive policies can pave the path for more positive migration experiences.
