Migration and Household Welfare: An Empirical Study of Left-Behind Families in Rural India

This research examines socio-economic and non-economic effects of migration on left-behind families in India. A research design of descriptive and analytical research method was adopted in which 400 households were sampled using structured questionnaires as method of data collection. Its results indicate a quite strong positive effect of migration on household income, improved spending on education and medical services, and leads to the overall improved economic welfare. Nevertheless, this is not without burdens and emotional demands, more responsibilities, mostly on women, and psychological pressure to children. The confirmation of the dual-prong nature of the impacts of migration is seen through statistical outcomes of paired t-tests, chi-square test and regression analysis. This study indicates that though migration is a significant livelihood strategy, specific policy interventions are required to deal with non-economic issues of families that are left behind. The study also provides beneficial information to policy formulators, social workers, and practitioners, as well as philanthropies involved in rural development who may benefit by learning how to code a comprehensive approach to migrant-sending areas.