Internal Migration During COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis Through the Lens Of Social Organisations

Authors

  • Arvind S. Susarla Associate Professor, Centre for Regional Studies, School of Social Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Prof. C.R. Rao Raod, Gachibowli, Hyderabad-500046
  • S. Shaji Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, School of Social Sciences, University of Hyderabad Prof. C.R.Rao Road, Gachibowli, Hyderabad- 500046.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25175/jrd/2022/v41/i2/172906

Keywords:

Migration, Social Organisation, COVID-19, Pandemic, India.

Abstract

In March 2020, a large number of people moved from cities to their homes in rural areas, and a few months later, many returned to cities. These journeys were undertaken not only during the COVID-19 pandemic against the advisory of governments and public health experts, but the circumstances of travel were also under extreme hardship. How may we understand this intense response by people? By drawing on the migration theory and the roles of social ties or social organisation, we can better explain peoples’ reactions during this pandemic. Notably, we find non-material values, such as the dignity of labour or responsibilities to family, are significant to decision -making, and there is a desire not to compromise on these values. Further, our analyses find that the distinction between pre-disaster and post-disaster situations may not be helpful.

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Published

2023-05-11

How to Cite

Susarla, A. S., & Shaji, S. (2023). Internal Migration During COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis Through the Lens Of Social Organisations. Journal of Rural Development, 41(2), 198–209. https://doi.org/10.25175/jrd/2022/v41/i2/172906

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