Unfolding impact of lockdown in the advent of COVID-19 in India: Challenges of reverse migration and rural resilience Venkateshwarlu Chalamalla* Chalamalla Venkateshwarlu, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University College of Arts & Social Sciences (UCA & SS), Osmania University, Hyderabad-500095, Telangana, India *Email id: chalamallavenkateshwarlu@gmail.com
Online Published on 6 January, 2022. Abstract In March 2020, the Indian government enforced a nationwide lockdown as a response to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic that had sent shockwaves throughout the global economy. This sudden proclamation of lockdown had a devastating impact on a country where a staggering 90% of the labour force operates in the informal sector, lacking proper social protection. The situation was particularly dire for the significant proportion of these informal workers who were migrant labourers. The repercussions of the pandemic response were poised to exacerbate India’s pre-existing and intricate economic challenges, which appeared to be more widespread and enduring than the direct impact of the virus itself, as evident from the daily news and credible sources. This article delves into the intricate dynamics surrounding the phenomenon of reverse migration, viewing it through the lens of traditional development paradigms. It seeks to quantify the extent of reverse migration stemming from the COVID-19 crisis, relying on data from various sources to provide an accurate estimate of the number of individuals who returned to their home regions. Additionally, the study aims to assess the capacity and readiness of rural infrastructure to absorb this influx of returning workers, shedding light on how effectively they can be accommodated in their native areas. In order to gain a comprehensive understanding of how reverse migration is influencing labour dynamics in India, this article takes a closer look at the situation from two key perspectives: the areas people are returning from (the ‘origin’ of the migration) and the regions they are returning to (the ‘destination’ of the migration). By examining both sides of this movement, we can better grasp the intricate dynamics at play. First, the analysis delves into the circumstances in the regions people are leaving, often urban areas, where they had migrated in search of employment opportunities and better livelihoods. This segment of the study explores the factors and challenges that prompted these individuals to return to their home regions. These could include job losses, economic uncertainties, health concerns, and the hardships they faced in cities during the lockdown. Simultaneously, the article scrutinises the areas these migrants are returning to, often rural and semi-urban locations. It assesses the readiness and capacity of the local infrastructure to absorb and support this influx of returning workers. This involves examining aspects like housing, employment opportunities, healthcare facilities, and social services available in these rural areas. It highlights the need to ensure that these regions can effectively accommodate and provide for the returning workforce. Furthermore, the study goes on to evaluate the responses and measures taken by the government in light of this reverse migration phenomenon. It assesses the effectiveness of existing policies in addressing the challenges posed by the sudden influx of people into rural areas. This includes looking at government efforts to provide relief, employment opportunities, and social support to the returning migrants. In the final phase of this comprehensive analysis, the article offers recommendations for both short-term and long-term strategies to address the multifaceted challenges presented by reverse migration, which has been triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. These recommendations may encompass improving rural infrastructure, enhancing employment opportunities, and ensuring social protection for the returning labour force. The aim is to provide policymakers and stakeholders with practical guidance on how to manage and optimise the impact of reverse migration on labour dynamics in the aftermath of the pandemic. Top Keywords Covid-19, Migration, Reverse migration, Labour force, Agriculture, Rural resilience, Social welfare, Public policy. Top |