Distinct Employment Corridors in South India Identified for North-East Indian Districts

A survey conducted across eight districts in three North-East Indian states has revealed that there are distinct migration routes or corridors to South India for employment, varying by district. According to a report in The Hindu, people from the Nagaon district of Assam have a specific route to Hyderabad, while a large number of people from North Garo Hills in Meghalaya migrate to Tamil Nadu. More than two out of three migrants from the Dhalai district of Tripura head to Karnataka.

The survey was carried out by the Guwahati-based non-profit organisation 'Seven Sisters Development Assistance'. The study covered 693 families across 14 administrative blocks in five districts of Assam, two in Meghalaya, and one in Tripura. Among these, 62% of the families belong to Scheduled Tribe communities and 95% own land, though it is insufficient for farming. The organisation analysed a total of 705 migration records.

According to the survey, 72.6% of migrants travel outside their state for work through established corridors. Regarding destinations, Karnataka leads with 22.7%, followed by Assam (primarily Guwahati) at 22.3%, Tamil Nadu at 13.8%, and Kerala at 10.1%. In North India, Delhi (4.5%) is the only destination, while Meghalaya (primarily Shillong) accounts for 8.7%. Among South Indian states, Telangana was the least preferred at 4.5%.

Both 'push' and 'pull' factors were observed as reasons for migration. 88% of respondents cited a lack of work in the village, while 91% mentioned reasons such as land shortage or the need to repay loans. On the other hand, 40% leave home for a better lifestyle, 36% for better jobs, and 26% for higher salaries. In more than 50% of cases, both push and pull factors were present simultaneously.

The study indicates that youth and men are more prevalent among migrants, with women comprising only 12%. 60% of migrants are aged 30 years or younger. 74% of the records were noted between 2021 and 2025; however, the authors suggest this figure could be higher as the survey includes people who are still away from home.

Personal contacts play a larger role than agencies in securing employment. 70% of people found work through family members or friends, while only 6% applied directly. Friends and family members play a key role in determining the destination.

Regarding economic conditions, migrants receive modest wages. The median monthly earning is ₹15,000, and 86.5% of people earn ₹20,000 or less. A worker spends an average of ₹7,000 per month on food, health, and education. Money is sent home to 92% of families, leaving them with almost nothing for investment.

Concerning working hours and facilities, 53% of workers stated they have to work long hours, while only 19% received paid leave. Casual labourers are the most affected.

The survey found a strong desire among people to stay in their villages. 88% of families stated that migrants would stay in the village if livelihood opportunities were available locally. 70% of people identified local industries as the best option for this. The study emphasises that migration is not being opposed, but it should be made a choice rather than a necessity.