Livelihood Security of Migrant and Non-Migrant Labour Households in Northern Dry Zone of Karnataka

The study examines the nature of labour migration and its influence on the livelihood security of migrant and non-migrant labour households in the Northern dry zone of Karnataka. A multistage purposive random sampling technique was employed to select migrant and non-migrant labour households. Primary data were collected through well-structured interview schedules from total of 320 sample respondents, comprising of 160 migrants and 160 non-migrant labour households from Vijaypur in Gadag districts respectively. The analytical tools such as descriptive statistics and livelihood security indices were used for the analysis. The Gadag district pendular migration (movement for less than a day) was predominant (55%), whereas seasonal migration (up to 3 months) was most common in Vijaypur district (47.5%). Temporary and permanent migration were observed to a lesser extent in both districts. Migrant households generally have higher economic, educational and overall livelihood security in both the districts. In Vijaypur district, migrants secured significantly higher food security (0.852) and the overall livelihood security index (0.835). whereas, non-migrants showed stronger livelihood security indices in health, habitat and social network dimensions, indicating a trade-off between mobility and stability. Similar patterns were observed in Gadag district, with more pronounced differences. These findings underscore the complex, multidimensional impact of labour migration and provides valuable inputs for targeted policy interventions, strengthening support systems for migrants while addressing the vulnerabilities of non-migrants is essential for enhancing rural livelihood resilience and promoting balanced regional development.