Abstract

Saurabh Sethi, Ranjit Singh Ghuman and Wilfred Isioma Ukpere*

Labour migration is a complex phenomenon and encompasses different streams which vary in duration, nature of origin and destination areas and characteristics of migration process. Based on the primary and secondary data, this paper analyses the socio-economic conditions of migrant labourers in Patiala city; studies the nature, size, type and other characteristics of migrant labourers; analyses to what extent migration has contributed towards the improvement in the peconomic conditions of migrant labourers and their families; examines the effects of migration on the general improvement of the economic conditions in those areas supporting migration; outlines the difficulties and problems faced by migrant workers during migration; and finally reviews the various legal and legislative enactments of central and state governments to safeguard the interests of migrant labourers. Resourcelessness, unemployment and poverty are the main factors responsible for the migration of the poor labourers and these labourers have a tendency to migrate in their young age. A sizeable proportion of male migrants goes alone 1st and leaves their wives behind in the village. Many of these migrants send remittances to their families, visit frequently, and return to their villages to retire. Migration is shown to have contributed significantly to the improved economic situation of the migrants and their families.