Exploring Rural-to-Rural Migration: Socioeconomic Impacts and Developmental Dynamics in Two Villages in District Barabanki (Uttar Pradesh), India

Rural-to-rural migration is a significant yet underexplored phenomenon in India’s internal migration patterns. This study examines migration trends in Aktahiya village, Deva Block, Barabanki District, Uttar Pradesh, focusing on the socioeconomic, agricultural, and demographic impacts of this migration from other villages. Utilizing primary field data, the research highlights how migrants from eastern Uttar Pradesh districts, such as Ballia and Jaunpur, have contributed to local agricultural transformation through improved irrigation techniques, diversified cropping systems, and sustainable farming practices. The study finds that while land ownership disparities exist among different social groups, economic stability is maintained through livelihood diversification, including agriculture, animal husbandry, and wage labour. Additionally, housing conditions, educational attainment, and landholding patterns reflect broader socioeconomic stratification, with marginalized communities facing structural barriers. The research underscores the role of migration in sustaining rural economies, mitigating urban distress, and fostering regional economic stability. The findings suggest that targeted policies focusing on land distribution, rural employment, housing, and education are essential for promoting inclusive and sustainable rural development.