MIGRATION, REMITTANCES, AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION IN KERALA: A DEMOGRAPHIC AND RELIGIOUS ANALYSIS


Dr. Rafeek V H
Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Government College, Kodanchery, Kerala, India
Abstract
International migration has become one of the most impactful social and economic changes in Kerala. Migration to Gulf countries has significantly changed the state's economy, population, and social structure. This study looks at the demographic and religious aspects of migration and remittances in Kerala, focusing on emigrant households. The article primarily uses data from the Kerala Migration Survey (KMS) 2016, conducted by the Centre for Development Studies (CDS). It also references secondary data from census reports, human development reports, and previous studies. The analysis investigates migration patterns, gender breakdowns, age distributions, marital statuses, educational levels, job conditions, and the religious makeup of emigrants and return migrants. Findings show that migration from Kerala primarily involves males and focuses on younger, better-educated groups. Muslims make up the largest share of emigrants, despite shifts in migration patterns over time. Remittances have greatly improved living standards through better housing, education, healthcare, and household resources. However, remittance use tends to focus on spending rather than investment. The study concludes that migration has become a key means of social and economic advancement in Kerala, significantly transforming the lives of migrant communities, especially in districts such as Malappuram.
Keywords: Migration, Remittances, Kerala, Gulf Migration, Muslim Emigrants, Socio-Economic Development, Kerala Migration Survey
Journal Name :
EPRA International Journal of Socio-Economic and Environmental Outlook(SEEO)

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Published on : 2026-05-22

Vol : 13
Issue : 5
Month : May
Year : 2026
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