NSO to Conduct Nationwide Migration Survey in 2026–27

The National Statistics Office will conduct a comprehensive Survey on Migration across India from July 2026 to June 2027 to generate updated and granular data on migration patterns. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the evidence base for policymaking in sectors closely linked to population mobility and labour dynamics.

Scope and Objectives of the Migration Survey

The survey will be undertaken by the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. It will capture detailed information on the extent and nature of migration, including rural–urban movement, inter-state migration, seasonal and return migration, as well as the socio-economic and employment profiles of migrants. Reasons for migration will also be systematically documented.

Policy Relevance and Data Use

According to the Ministry, the data generated will assist policymakers, planners, researchers and development practitioners in designing targeted interventions. These include urban planning, housing, transport infrastructure, employment generation, social security coverage and skill development. Reliable migration data is critical for addressing pressures on cities and improving welfare delivery for migrant populations.

Earlier Migration Data and Trends

Migration surveys have been conducted periodically by the Ministry. The most recent migration-related datasets were drawn from the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2020–21 and the Multiple Indicator Survey 2020–21. As per PLFS 2020–21, India’s overall migration rate stood at 28.9 per cent, indicating significant population mobility across regions and sectors.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Survey on Migration will be conducted during July 2026–June 2027.
• It is undertaken by the National Statistics Office under MoSPI.
• PLFS 2020–21 estimated India’s migration rate at 28.9 per cent.
• Migration data supports planning in housing, employment and urban infrastructure.

Gender Dimensions of Migration in India

PLFS 2020–21 data revealed sharp gender differences in migration. At the all-India level, the migration rate was 10.7 per cent among males and 47.9 per cent among females. Marriage accounted for about 86.8 per cent of female migration, reflecting strong social drivers. In contrast, employment and better job opportunities were the leading reasons for male migration, accounting for 22.8 per cent. These patterns underscore the gender-specific nature of migration in India, a key focus area for the upcoming survey, as informed in Parliament by Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh in the Rajya Sabha.