Does distance of migration predicts the type of occupation status in India-An Explorative analysis

Anshul Kastor, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Ajeet Singh, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

Migration in India is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by economic, social, and political factors. This study investigates whether the distance of migration predicts the type of occupational status migrants secure, focusing on internal migration streams. Using data from the "Migration in India 2020-21" report by the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), this study employs descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and geographic mapping to analyze the impact of migration distance on employment outcomes. The findings reveal that short-distance migrants (within the same district) are primarily concentrated in informal sectors, with 65% of male and 87% of female migrants engaged in agriculture and manual labor. In contrast, long-distance migrants, especially those crossing state lines, have a higher probability (45%) of securing formal sector jobs in manufacturing and services. Regression analysis indicates that for every 100 km increase in migration distance, the likelihood of employment in the formal sector increases by 12%. However, significant gender disparities exist, with women, particularly those migrating for non-employment reasons, experiencing limited occupational mobility. These results suggest that migration distance significantly influences occupational status, with long-distance migrants benefiting from better employment opportunities. Policy interventions are needed to facilitate long-distance migration, improve employment access, and address gender-specific occupational barriers.

Keywords: Internal Migration and Urbanization

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