Decline in Rural-to-Urban Migration

A recent study by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) highlights a significant decline in rural-to-urban migration in India, with a reduction of 5.4 million migrants (11.8%) since 2011. Migration rates fell from 37.6% in 2011 to 28.9% in 2023, attributed to better rural economic opportunities and improved services. However, evidence shows decreased labour movement via transport modes like railways and buses. The trend reflects rising rural dependence on agriculture, leading to disguised unemployment and stagnant wages. The report calls for policies to enhance rural incomes and address broader economic challenges affecting migration.