High-Level Task Force to Address Distressed Migration of Labourers in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: A crucial meeting of the High-Level Task Force, aimed at tackling the issue of distressed migration labourers in Odisha, was convened today at the Lok Seva Bhavan conference hall. The meeting, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who also serves as the Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Empowerment, and Energy, discussed strategies to address the growing problem of internal migration in the state.

The Nudge Foundation, an action institute focused on poverty eradication, has joined forces with the state to address migration challenges in Odisha. Having previously completed successful initiatives in West Bengal and Jharkhand, Nudge Foundation is eager to extend its efforts to Odisha. According to their findings, migration in the state is primarily driven by two factors: the aspiration for higher earnings and the lack of sustainable livelihood options at home. Districts such as Ganjam, Balangir, Kalahandi, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh have seen significant outflows of people migrating to other states in search of better livelihood opportunities.

In the case of Ganjam, many individuals migrate aspirationally, hoping for higher wages, while people from other districts often migrate due to insufficient local livelihood options or to repay debts. Singh Deo emphasized that addressing this issue requires creating sustainable livelihood options within the state, reducing the need for people to seek work elsewhere. To this end, Nudge Foundation plans to undertake an in-depth study of migration patterns, causes, and potential solutions in Odisha’s migration-prone districts and Gram Panchayats.

The study’s findings will serve as the basis for developing a targeted approach, which will be formulated in collaboration with the state government. The Deputy Chief Minister outlined that a focus on food security, social security, sustainable livelihoods, and prospective employment—through a “Graduation Approach”—could substantially mitigate the distress caused by migration. Additionally, the Nudge Foundation will monitor the financial and social progress of the families once alternative livelihoods are provided.

Minister Suresh Pujari, a member of the task force, suggested implementing a cluster approach in areas with high migration rates, particularly at the panchayat or block level, to streamline the delivery of livelihood programs.

The meeting also saw participation from key stakeholders, including Minister of Revenue & Disaster Management Suresh Pujari, Minister of Rural Development, Panchayatiraj & Drinking Water Rabi Narayan Naik, Minister of Forest, Environment & Climate and Labour & ESI Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, DC cum ACS Anu Garg, Principal Secretary Saswat Mishra, and other senior officials.