The Covid-19 pandemic caused significant migration disruptions globally, particularly in India. During the lockdowns, an estimated 46.3 million migrants moved back from urban to rural areas. This mass reverse migration was primarily driven by job losses and the inability to sustain livelihoods in cities. Many of these migrants were low-income workers, seasonal laborers, or those in temporary positions. They faced severe consequences such as unemployment, food insecurity, and restricted access to health services.
Five years after the initial shock of the pandemic, many migrants have begun returning to urban areas as economic activities resumed. This shift has sparked a reevaluation of employment security, leading to increased interest in migration governance and better livelihood options within their home regions.
Despite the disruptions, remittance flows remained resilient throughout the pandemic. They have continued to be a crucial source of income for families in India, reinforcing the significance of international migration and remittance economies. States like Kerala, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh have particularly benefited from these financial inflows.
International migrants encountered numerous challenges during the pandemic, including job losses, reduced wages, overcrowded living conditions, inadequate sanitation, and greater health risks. Many were stranded abroad; for instance, about 40% of Jharkhand migrants in Cameroon could not return home. Nonetheless, remittances from overseas remained robust.
India is witnessing a diversification of migrant destinations, with an increasing number of individuals moving to non-traditional countries such as Georgia, Ghana, and Serbia. Furthermore, Europe is becoming an attractive destination for skilled Indian workers due to new Blue Card reforms aimed at facilitating their employment.
As cities revive economically, they are again attracting workers, especially in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and services. Government initiatives such as MGNREGA and various state rural schemes provided temporary support but were insufficient for ensuring long-term employment stability.
In 2021, the Indian government launched the e-Shram portal to register unorganised workers and assist them in accessing social security benefits, insurance, and ration subsidies. However, limited awareness and digital access have hindered the portal's overall effectiveness.
Migration patterns to Gulf nations are evolving, shifting from predominantly low-skilled roles to more semi-skilled and skilled positions. The India-Qatar migration corridor remains strong, but there is a notable diversification in destination countries for Indian migrants.
India continues to be one of the world's leading recipients of remittances, with an impressive $111 billion received in 2022. Notably, Kerala alone accounted for over ₹1.3 trillion in remittances in 2021, highlighting the economic importance of these financial transfers.
The pandemic has underscored the necessity for data-driven migration policies, fostering regional cooperation, and developing robust support systems for both internal and international migrants. Expanding digital frameworks and improving policy implementation are vital for safeguarding migrant rights and enhancing their livelihoods.
Q1. What were the main reasons for reverse migration during the pandemic?
Answer: Reverse migration was primarily driven by lockdowns and job losses, forcing many low-income and seasonal migrants to return to rural areas for survival.
Q2. How have remittance flows changed post-pandemic?
Answer: Remittance flows remained stable during the pandemic and continue to be a significant financial resource for families, especially in states like Kerala and Bihar.
Q3. What are the new destinations for Indian migrants?
Answer: Indian migrants are increasingly moving to non-traditional destinations such as Georgia, Ghana, and Serbia, alongside established routes to Gulf countries.
Q4. What is the e-Shram portal?
Answer: Launched in 2021, the e-Shram portal aims to register unorganised workers in India, providing access to social security benefits and support services.
Q5. How has internal migration changed after Covid-19?
Answer: Post-pandemic, internal migration has seen a resurgence as urban economic activities pick up, drawing workers back to cities, particularly in labor-intensive sectors.
Question 1: What was a significant consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic on migration in India?
A) Increased urbanization
B) Mass reverse migration
C) Decrease in remittances
D) Lower unemployment rates
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which Indian state received over ₹1.3 trillion in remittances in 2021?
A) Bihar
B) Uttar Pradesh
C) Kerala
D) Jharkhand
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What initiative was launched to support unorganised workers in India?
A) MGNREGA
B) e-Shram portal
C) Skill India
D) PMAY
Correct Answer: B
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