Labour Migration Challenges in India
Recent trends indicate a significant decline in labour migration in India due to a combination of pandemic-induced behavioural changes, welfare schemes, and a surge in infrastructure projects. This has resulted in a shortage of workers across various industries.
Key Observations
- Chairman and Managing Director of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), noted that labourers prefer staying in rural areas for comfort, impacting relocation and job migration.
- Supreme Court Judge B.R. Gavai observed that election-time schemes are reducing the willingness to work among people.
- Vimal Kejriwal from KEC International highlighted that labourers now leave work sites sooner than before, affecting company earnings.
- Basavarajappa C from Sterling and Wilson noted that job opportunities near hometowns are increasing due to development, reducing the need for migration.
- Kartik Narayan from TeamLease emphasized the importance of social and family connections, which have become more pronounced post-COVID.
Factors Contributing to Decline in Migration
- A surge in infrastructure projects, creating local job opportunities.
- States like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are witnessing industrialization, offering jobs within the state.
- High living expenses and job insecurity in urban areas outweigh the benefits of moving.
Industry Responses
- Companies are establishing training academies and collaborating with educational institutions to skill workers.
- Government schemes like the One Nation One Ration Card (ONOR) and the National Migration Support Portal aim to improve access to jobs and social services for migrant workers.
Future Outlook
- Firms that effectively meet workforce expectations regarding physical, social, and financial well-being may have a competitive advantage in labor retention.
