Women’s labour migration and vulnerability: the case of Arunachal Pradesh

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the vulnerability of migrant workers in Arunachal Pradesh, India, focusing on disparities in employment, economic, social and workplace security across gender, religion, education and district contexts. Design/methodology/approach Using primary survey data from 400 migrants and 50 non-migrants across four urban centres, a composite vulnerability index is constructed. Beta regression models assess the influence of socio-demographic and regional factors on employment, economic, social and workplace insecurity. Findings Female migrants face higher vulnerability because of concentration in low-wage informal work and limited protections. Muslim and Buddhist migrants experience elevated insecurity linked to discrimination. Education significantly reduces vulnerability, while illiteracy reinforces precarious employment. District-level differences highlight the role of local labour markets, though economic insecurity persists even in relatively better-performing sectors. Originality/value This study offers an intersectional analysis of migrant vulnerability in a relatively under-researched region of India. By integrating composite indices with regression analysis, it identifies key structural determinants of insecurity and provides policy insights for gender-sensitive interventions, improved education access, strengthened social protection and reduced institutional barriers.