India to Conduct Nationwide Migration Survey from July 2026: NSO Initiative

PLFS 2020–21 data revealed pronounced gender differences in migration patterns. At the all-India level:

• Migration rate among males : 10.7%

• Migration rate among females : 47.9%

Marriage was the dominant reason for female migration, accounting for 86.8% , reflecting strong social and cultural drivers. In contrast, employment and better job opportunities were the leading reasons for male migration, accounting for 22.8% .

These gender-specific trends will be a key focus of the upcoming survey, as highlighted in Parliament by Rao Inderjit Singh in the Rajya Sabha .

Broader Significance

The nationwide migration survey is expected to fill critical data gaps exposed in recent years, especially regarding internal labour mobility. By providing updated and disaggregated insights, the survey will support inclusive growth, labour reforms, and urban governance , reinforcing data-driven policymaking in a rapidly transforming economy.