Characteristics and economic implications of migration
Mehta, G.S.
Journal of Rural Development 10(6): 731-744
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0970-3357 PMID: 12343982 Document Number: 321650
This study, based on a sample of 205 migrant households in three villages in the hill region of Uttar Pradesh, attempts to highlight the characteristics of migration and its effects on the pattern of income distribution. It is found that the migration of population from various villages is primarily motivated by several fundamental factors, such as the socioeconomic condition of the households, development of road transport and communication systems, level of education, and various geographical and physical conditions. There is greater migration among those with lower income or landholdings. The average age of migrants at the time of migration is around 21 years of age, and average educational qualification is middle or secondary level. The tendency of migration is for individuals to migrate to the urban areas of the plains, leaving their family behind, and visiting them from time to time. Among the lower level income groups, the household income rose significantly after migration, due to greater remittances received, thus reducing the imbalances in income distribution patterns in lower opportunity areas.