Uttarakhand’s Migration: A view from the hills
Uttarakhand, also known as “Devbhoomi”, beckons countless dreamers with the allure of its majestic Himalayan vistas and lush greenery. Yet, in a curious paradox, many of Uttarakhand’s own residents are departing for the bustling metropolises, and those who remain are seeking the comparatively plain regions within the state.
This ongoing trend of migration stems from the scarcity of essential amenities within their native region. People are compelled to relocate to urban centres in pursuit of employment opportunities, improved educational prospects for their children, and access to healthcare facilities. A substantial portion of those migrating from the state often find themselves engaged in unskilled occupations, residing in modest single-room accommodations due to limited incomes. Despite the cramped living conditions, they perceive this as an acceptable trade-off, as they gain access to vital services that were conspicuously absent in their hometowns.
The Rural Development and Migration Prevention Commission of Uttarakhand has submitted its interim report for the period 2018–2022 to the state government. The report reveals a significant trend of migration, with a total of 3.3 lakh individuals having relocated from various regions of the state, particularly from its hilly areas, during the aforementioned four-year period. Interestingly, the data also highlights a notable increase in the number of uninhabited villages in Uttarakhand, with a rise of 734 such villages between 2011 and 2018, accentuating the shifting demographic dynamics within the state.
The physical geography of the state is a significant factor in this; also, a declining agricultural industry, unpredictable weather patterns, and a sizable section of the population that depends on agriculture have increased the urgency of looking for better opportunities elsewhere. Although migration presents opportunities for a better life, it also carries a unique set of difficulties from the perspective of those who migrate. After uprooting themselves from their homes, families, and customs, migrants must overcome the difficult challenge of integrating into an unfamiliar society. They often feel disconnected and alienated due to language barriers, difficulties in social adaptation, and economic disparities.
The state’s social structure and demographic makeup are being significantly impacted by the migration of residents from Uttarakhand. Few young people live in ageing communities, which raises concerns about the preservation of traditional customs and agricultural practices. In addition, remittances from migrants support the local economy and provide a vital lifeline for many families who are left behind. However, the government of Uttarakhand has started initiatives to generate employment in the state. To slow down the rate of migration and advance sustainable development, projects are being established in industries such as tourism, horticulture, and education. Despite these numerous initiatives, the flow of migration continues unabated; it may be due to no proper implementation of the framed policies.
