Undergoing Motherhood as an Interstate Labor Migrant: Experiences From Central Rajasthan in India

ABSTRACT Motherhood is not only highly revered but adequately protected by patriarchal norms in Indian society. However, labor migration due to livelihood emergencies exposes women to a harsh and unusual reality. The current study attempts to capture the subjective experiences of women undergoing motherhood in a migrant situation. The research design for the current study was explorative; thus, the researcher used an unstructured interview schedule to collect qualitative data from 14 women regarding their pregnancy and childcare experiences. The respondents were selected using a purposive sampling method. The study highlights a blend of traditional as well as some overlooked policy gaps. Inadequate healthcare access, overengagement in work, pathetic living conditions, and absence of childcare facilities are some of the conventional policy challenges, while absence of family members, mental distress due to isolation, and frequent commuting between workplace and home are nonconventional challenges.