Patterns and determinants of rural–urban migration in the Garhwal Himalaya

Rural–urban migration is the most adopted strategy in rural areas to overcome the risk associated with subsistence economy and to diversify income. The Garhwal Himalaya has the highest rate of rural–urban migration in India, which has serious repercussions. Despite this, there is a dearth of literature on the implications of rural–urban migration in the region. This paper attempts to fill this void. The objectives of the paper are to investigate various types, patterns, determinants, and implications of rural–urban migration in the Garhwal Himalaya. In order to meet the objectives, 15 villages were studied from five districts of the Garhwal Himalaya. A comprehensive questionnaire with diverse set of questions from various dimensions was employed in the study. Several migration related questions from both origin and destination were considered while framing and conducting the survey. Several focused group discussions and interviews were conducted in the study villages to understand the real drivers and implications of rural–urban migration in the region. The study reveals that rural–urban migration is a serious issue in Garhwal Himalayas, posing various socio-economic problems. Without immediate action, it will have serious repercussions. Finally, this study suggests minimizing the current rate of rural–urban migration in the Garhwal Himalaya.