Migration Dynamics in Assam: A Census-Based Analysis (1991-2011)

The migration issues are distinct in population dynamics. The Northeast region faces large-scale migratory movements. The study tries to look at how migration patterns and characteristics in Assam have changed between 1991 and 2011, utilizing the Census data. The study focuses on factors such as gender, how long people stay, and why they decide to migrate. Migration happened in Assam is mostly associated with socio-economic factors and intra-district migration, where men are moving more for work and education and women mainly move because of marriage. It is also found that more people are moving in than moving out in 1991, but by 2001, that changed. More people started leaving the state, mostly heading to industrial areas for work. In 2011, although net out-migration persisted, the magnitude declined, indicating a gradual movement towards a more balanced migration system. As human capital becomes more important in migration decisions, the rise in literacy and education among migrants shows a clear shift towards skilled and selective movement. In Assam, migration used to be more about social traditions, but now it is shifting to being driven mostly by economic reasons and education. This change shows that the state is becoming more connected with the rest of India when it comes to internal migration.