27 February 2025 : Daily Answer Writing
MAINS MODEL QUESTION: 27 th FEBRUARY 2025
Q1) Analyze the influence of globalization on migration patterns in India. What are the economic and social implications of increased internal and international migration? (15 marks, 250 words)
ANSWER
Globalization has profoundly influenced migration patterns worldwide, including in India. The interconnectedness of economies, advancements in transportation and communication, and liberalization of trade and investment have significantly altered the dynamics of migration. In India, globalization has accelerated both internal migration and international migration.
INFLUENCE OF GLOBALIZATION ON MIGRATION PATTERN IN INDIA
- Economic Opportunities: Globalization has led to the growth of various industries and the service sector in urban areas, attracting a significant workforce from rural regions. For example, cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad have become economic hubs, offering employment opportunities in IT, manufacturing, and services, which has resulted in a surge in rural-to-urban migration.
- Urbanization: The process of urbanization, driven and fueled by globalization, has expanded metropolitan areas, creating new towns and cities. The migration from rural to urban areas has thus increased, leading to the growth of peri-urban regions.
- Skilled Migration: Globalization has opened up opportunities for skilled professionals in global markets. Indian IT professionals, engineers, doctors, and students have increasingly migrated to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The demand for skilled labor in these countries, coupled with the liberalization of visa regimes, has facilitated this trend.
- Low-Skilled Migration: Low-skilled and semi-skilled workers from India have also migrated in large numbers to the Gulf countries, Southeast Asia, and other regions. The construction, domestic work, and service sectors in these countries heavily rely on migrant labor from India.
- Education and Skills Development: The demand for a skilled workforce has increased due to globalization, prompting people to move to urban centers for better education and training opportunities.
- Gig Economy: Globalization has also influenced the growth of the gig economy in India, which has allowed rural-to-urban migration for people who are not skilled. For example, many people have migrated from rural areas to join gig economy companies like Zomato, Swiggy, etc.
ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF INCREASED INTERNAL AND INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION
Economic Implications:
(a) Remittances: One of the most significant economic impacts of international migration is remittances. India is one of the largest recipients of remittances globally (approx. 100bn USD annually- World Bank). These remittances contribute to the economy by improving household incomes, enhancing living standards, and providing capital for investment in education, healthcare, and small businesses.
(b) Labor Market Dynamics: Internal migration has led to a reallocation of labor from agriculture to industry and services. This shift has implications for productivity and economic growth.
(c) Brain Drain vs. Brain Gain: While the migration of skilled professionals can lead to a “brain drain,” it also has the potential for “brain gain” through return migration and the transfer of skills and knowledge. Indian professionals abroad can contribute to the economy through investments, entrepreneurial ventures, and knowledge exchange.
(d) Informal Economy: A significant proportion of internal migrants work in the informal economy, which poses challenges to economic stability and growth. The lack of formal employment opportunities and social security benefits can perpetuate poverty and inequality among migrant workers.
Social Implications:
(a) Demographic Changes: Migration patterns influenced by globalization result in significant demographic changes. Urban areas experience population growth, leading to increased demand for housing, infrastructure, and services. This can strain resources and impact the quality of life in cities.
(b) Cultural Integration: Internal migration brings diverse cultural practices to urban areas, leading to cultural integration and sometimes, conflicts. The amalgamation of different cultures can enrich urban life, but it also requires policies that promote social cohesion and harmony.
(c) Education and Healthcare: Migration impacts access to education and healthcare services. Urban areas with a high influx of migrants often face challenges in providing adequate services.
(d) Social Security and Rights: Migrants, especially those working in the informal sector, often lack social security and labor rights. This vulnerability can lead to exploitation, poor working conditions, and social exclusion.
Globalization has significantly influenced migration patterns in India, driving both internal and international migration. To harness the benefits of migration while mitigating its adverse effects, comprehensive policies that address the economic and social needs of migrants are essential. Ensuring equitable development, social cohesion, and the protection of migrant rights will be crucial for balancing the dynamics of migration in a globalized world.
Read more- MAINS MODEL QUESTION: 26 th FEBRUARY 2025
