Interstate Migration In Kerala: An Overview
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
Katharina J, Kerala University
Introduction
Kerala is a state with a long history of migration. Both international and inter-state migration has been going on since its formation in 1956. The state's economy and society have been greatly affected by this migration. Kerala's economy is significantly supported by the money expatriates bring in, which has resulted in the creation of a special development model that revolves around their revenue. The migration pattern of Kerala differs significantly from that of other Indian states. It acts as a source of labourers for remote areas as well as a point of arrival for workers from other states looking to fill positions in the area. Workers from nearby Tamil Nadu and Karnataka first moved to Kerala, some 25 years ago, in search of job. However, in the past two decades, there has been a notable shift with a significant influx of workers from eastern and northeastern states of India migrating to Kerala. This chapter provides an overview of the Kerala’s recent trends in internal migration.
Internal migration in Kerala has been a significant phenomenon with far-reaching implications for the state's economy and society. One prominent aspect of internal migration in Kerala is the movement of people from rural to urban areas within the state. This trend is driven by various factors such as employment opportunities, better infrastructure, and access to services like healthcare and education in urban centres. As a result, urban areas in Kerala have experienced rapid population growth, leading to increased pressure on resources and infrastructure.
Moreover, internal migration in Kerala is also characterized by seasonal migration patterns, particularly in the agricultural sector. Many individuals from rural areas migrate to urban centers or other states temporarily during peak agricultural seasons in search of better-paying jobs or opportunities for casual labour. This seasonal migration plays a crucial role in meeting the labour demands of various industries, including agriculture, construction, and tourism.
