The echo of migrant footfalls and the silence on policy

Context: Complete lack of comprehension on the complex dynamics of migration has led to failure in understanding the migrant’s plight. 

Migration in India:

• Types of Migration: Migration is not only inter-state but also intra-state or across international borders.
• Reason for migration: for work, livelihoods, marriage, seeking refuge, business and even peace of mind.
• Growing number: 

• As per 2011 Census, the number of internal migrants in India increased by 45% from 2001 to 2011 exceeding the population growth rate of 18% in the same period.
• Internal migrants as a percentage of population increased from 30% in 2001 to 37% in 2011.

• Necessity: Internal Migration results in a more efficient allocation of human resources to sectors and regions where they are better utilized.

Critique of government steps:

• Fear of and loathing for the authority: due to severe lockdowns and the inability of the government to provide quick relief.
• Knee Jerk Response: The idea of using the military to handle the complex dynamics of migration shows casualness for the value of human life. 

• The Cynical use of army has often led to ethnic strife (e.g. in the case with Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act)

Way Forward: Four things need to be done

• Relearn sustainable economics: emanating from the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, as India still reside in villages and small towns and not cities.
• Rebuild rural economy: based on building the households by 

• Strengthening cottage industries through the Swachch Bharat network, incentivizing rural manufacturers, supplement farm incomes.
• Empowering artisans with better skills, design, capacity and technology, access to capital/markets.

• Formalize Work from Home and design a Migration Plan.
• Re-direct Funding: to States, municipalities and Panchayat representing true democratic decentralisation. Around 20% of the national budget including that of education, health, women and children should be transferred to states.