Implications of migration on health and education: returned migrants and school teachers perspective in India: A qualitative study

Background

Poor tribal communities migrate from rural to urban areas to tackle their financial hardships. However, limited empirical literature collectively delves into the implications of health and educational attainments of household members of migrant households, while examining the intricate dynamics of labour migration among tribal Indian communities in India.

Objective

This study aims to examine the effects of labour migration on household health and education for accompanied and left-behind children.

Methods

Twenty-two semi-structured interviews and two focus group discussions (6–8 participants) were conducted in four tribal communities in India from August to November 2022 comprising 14 migrant households that recently returned from migration, three left behind adolescents of school age, three primary school head teachers and two Panchayat heads (community head). Data were analysed through an inductive thematic approach.

Results

Participants identified a lack of adequate housing and sanitation conditions, with intense and long labour hours as conditions at migration destinations that affect their health. Lack of maternal and child healthcare is staggering at the place of work. In particular, our findings revealed that temporary labour migrants do not enrol their children in schools; however, the case was different from permanent and long-term migrants who enrol their children in private schools. At their place of origin, school teachers reported frequent school dropouts, low enrolment, attendance and poor academic achievements among children of migrating households. There is prominent gender dynamics in academic performances, and its determinants. Early age marriage and joining labour force dropping-out of school is common.

Conclusion

The results highlight the negative effects of migration as a livelihood strategy on rural communities, particularly in the health and education of household members, asking for immediate government interventions.