IGNOU MSO-002 Assignment Answers 2025: Research Methodologies and Methods Solved Part 3

Question 6: Write a research report on Impact of transnational migration on Indian Society in about 3000 words.

You can write this report based either on review of literature, or data collected from the primary
sources.
For review of literature you are to select either two books or four research articles published recently
on the selected topic of your choice. Write a review article focusing on the location of the study,
methodology followed and the main findings of these studies.
For the primary source you are to collect two case studies and write a report on the selected topic in a
comparative framework. While writing the report spell out clearly the objectives and the problems of
the study and
· problematise the issue within the existing/available literature,
· elaborate your observations, finding and conclusion coherently, and
· make proper referencing at the end.

Answer:

Research Report: Impact of Transnational Migration on Indian Society

Abstract

This research report examines the multifaceted impact of transnational migration on Indian society, focusing on economic, social, and cultural dimensions. Drawing from a review of recent literature, the study explores how migration influences family structures, gender roles, community dynamics, and identity formation. The report also discusses the challenges faced by migrants and their families, including emotional strains, reintegration issues, and the socio-economic implications of remittances. Through a comparative analysis of case studies from Kerala and Assam, the report highlights regional variations and provides policy recommendations to address the needs of migrant communities.

Introduction

Transnational migration has become a significant phenomenon in India, with millions of individuals migrating abroad for employment opportunities, primarily to Gulf countries, the United States, and Europe. This movement has profound implications for both the migrants and their families left behind. While remittances have contributed to economic development, the social and cultural impacts are complex and multifaceted. This report aims to critically examine these impacts through a review of literature and case studies from Kerala and Assam.

Literature Review

2.1 Economic Impact

Transnational migration has led to substantial economic benefits for migrant-sending regions. In Kerala, remittances from the Gulf diaspora have been instrumental in improving living standards, education, and healthcare access for families. According to the World Bank, India received approximately $83 billion in remittances in 2020, with a significant portion coming from the Malayali diaspora in Gulf countries .

However, the economic benefits are not uniformly distributed. In regions like Dhemaji, Assam, climate-induced displacement has forced many men to migrate to cities like Chennai and Bengaluru. While remittances provide financial support, the absence of male breadwinners has placed additional burdens on women, who must manage households and cope with the emotional strains of separation .

2.2 Social and Cultural Impact

Migration has led to significant changes in family structures and gender roles. In Kerala, many households have transitioned to female-led units due to male migration. This shift has empowered women, granting them greater autonomy and decision-making power. However, it has also introduced challenges, including increased responsibilities and emotional stress .

Culturally, migrants often experience hybrid identities, blending Indian traditions with practices from host countries. This cultural amalgamation can lead to a sense of belonging in multiple contexts but may also result in identity conflicts .

2.3 Challenges Faced by Migrants

Migrants often encounter various challenges, including discrimination, exploitation, and lack of access to social services. A study by Asma Khan and H. Arokkiaraj (2021) highlighted that both internal and international migrants faced issues such as wage theft, inadequate living conditions, and lack of healthcare access during the COVID-19 pandemic .

Additionally, reverse migration during the pandemic revealed the vulnerabilities of migrants. Many returned to their native regions due to fears of lockdowns and safety concerns, only to face stigmatization and lack of support upon arrival .

Case Studies

3.1 Kerala: The Gulf Migration Experience

In Kerala, the Gulf migration has been a longstanding phenomenon. Migrants from Kerala have contributed significantly to the state’s economy through remittances. The social structure has also been influenced, with women assuming greater roles in household management and decision-making. However, challenges such as emotional strain due to prolonged separations and issues related to reintegration upon return persist.

3.2 Assam: Climate-Induced Migration

In Assam’s Dhemaji district, climate-induced displacement has led to increased migration. Men migrate to cities for work, leaving women to manage households. While remittances provide financial support, the absence of male family members has placed additional burdens on women, highlighting the need for targeted support for female-headed households.

Comparative Analysis

While both Kerala and Assam experience the benefits of remittances, the socio-cultural impacts differ. In Kerala, the migration experience has led to increased female empowerment, whereas in Assam, it has resulted in additional burdens for women. These differences underscore the importance of considering regional contexts when analyzing the impacts of transnational migration.

Policy Recommendations

To address the challenges faced by migrant communities, the following policy recommendations are proposed:

Enhanced Support for Female-Headed Households: Implement programs that provide financial, emotional, and social support to women managing households in the absence of male breadwinners.
Improved Reintegration Programs: Develop programs that assist returning migrants in reintegrating into their communities, including access to healthcare, employment, and social services.
Strengthening Legal Protections: Ensure that migrants have access to legal protections, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and healthcare services.
Community-Based Support Systems: Establish community centers that offer counseling, legal aid, and social support to migrants and their families.

Conclusion

Transnational migration has profound and multifaceted impacts on Indian society. While it offers economic benefits through remittances, it also introduces social and cultural challenges. By understanding these impacts and implementing targeted policies, the negative consequences can be mitigated, and the positive aspects can be enhanced, leading to more resilient and empowered migrant communities.

References

Asma Khan, H. Arokkiaraj. (2021). Challenges of reverse migration in India: a comparative study of internal and international migrant workers in the post-COVID economy. Comparative Migration Studies, 9(49). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40878-021-00260-2
Dhemaji families torn apart by floods bear silent burden of climate displacement. (2025). Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/holding-back-tears-dhemaji-families-torn-apart-by-floods-bear-silent-burden-of-climate-displacement/articleshow/121084453.cms
Impact of Transnational Migration on Indian Society. (n.d.). IGNOU CORNER. https://ignoucorner.com/impact-of-transnational-migration-on-indian-society/
Kerala Gulf diaspora. (2025). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerala_Gulf_diaspora
Linking Migration, Diversity and Regional Development in India. (2023). SAGE Journals. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/24551333221129019
Malayali diaspora. (2025). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayali_diaspora
Migration Patterns and Social Integration: A Longitudinal Analysis of South Indian Labor Migration to the Gulf. (2024). Journal of Informatics Education and Research, 4(3). https://jier.org/index.php/journal/article/view/1433
Social support and economic conditions among older migrants in India: do distance, duration, and streams of migration play a role in later life? (2024). *