India still relies on a 2007–08 migration survey. With gig work, climate pressures, and new job patterns, updated data is essential for accurate policymaking
The 2026–27 Migration Survey aims to fill major data gaps. Current census and NSS tools track mobility but miss today’s diverse and shifting migration patterns
In 2020–21, 29.1% of Indians were migrants. Women moved mostly for marriage; men for work. Most movement stayed within states, showing mobility is local yet varied
Migrant hardships remain underreported. States like Kerala, Punjab, and Maharashtra attract migrants, while Bihar, UP, and Jharkhand see large outward flows
The survey expands short-term migration to 15 days–6 months and tracks remittances. It will assess whether moving improves income, housing, health, and services
Better data will guide decisions on urban infrastructure, labour protection, and welfare portability, shifting policy from merely counting migrants to improving wellbeing