Migration
Definition of Migration
Migration refers to the movement of people from one place to another, across geographical or administrative boundaries, with the intention of residing temporarily or permanently at a new location.
Types of Migration
A. Based on Geography
| Type | Description |
| Internal Migration | Movement within the country (e.g., state to state, district to city) |
| International Migration | Movement across international borders (e.g., India to UAE) |
B. Based on Direction
| Type | Description |
| Rural to Urban | Common in India for employment and education |
| Urban to Rural | Return migration or de-urbanization |
| Rural to Rural | Often seasonal agricultural laborers |
| Urban to Urban | Professional transfers, business relocation |
C. Based on Time
| Type | Description |
| Temporary Migration | Seasonal/short-term movement |
| Permanent Migration | Long-term settlement or relocation |
Internal Migration in India
- As per Census 2011, over 45 crore people (37% of the population) were internal migrants.
- Rural to Urban is the most significant trend, driven by urban job markets and better amenities.
- Inter-state Migration: Bihar to Maharashtra, UP to Delhi, Odisha to Gujarat, etc.
International Migration
- Emigration: People leaving India for employment or residence (e.g., to the Gulf, US, UK).
- Immigration: People entering India (e.g., from Bangladesh, Nepal, Tibet).
Major Emigration Destinations:
- Gulf countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar): labor migration.
- USA, Canada, UK: skilled professionals and students.
Major Immigration Sources:
- Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Tibet.
Push and Pull Factors of Migration
| Push Factors (from origin) | Pull Factors (at destination) |
| Lack of employment opportunities | Better job prospects |
| Poverty and indebtedness | Higher wages |
| Crop failure, drought, natural disasters | Access to healthcare and education |
| Poor infrastructure and services | Urban lifestyle and amenities |
| Social conflict, caste discrimination | Political/religious freedom |
Impact of Migration
A. On Rural Areas
- Positive:
- Remittances support rural economy.
- Exposure to new skills and cultures.
- Negative:
- Brain drain and youth migration.
- Disruption of traditional occupations.
- Increased workload on women and elderly.
B. On Urban Areas
- Positive:
- Fills labor demand in construction, domestic work, manufacturing.
- Cultural diversity.
- Negative:
- Urban slums and overcrowding.
- Pressure on housing, transport, sanitation.
- Rise in informal sector employment.
Government Policies on Migration and Labor Mobility
| Policy/Initiative | Purpose |
| Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act (1979) | Protects rights and welfare of migrant workers |
| One Nation, One Ration Card | Ensures food security portability across states |
| e-Shram Portal (2021) | National database of unorganized workers |
| Mahatma Gandhi NREGA | Reduces distress migration by offering rural employment |
| Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) | Celebrates Indian diaspora and their contribution |
| National Migration Support Portal (Shramev Jayate) | To streamline migration and skilling initiatives |