For thousands of workers from Daringbadi, a remote hilly region in Odisha’s Kandhamal district, Kerala has become their equivalent of the Gulf—a land of economic opportunity and better wages. This growing trend, often remarked upon humorously, is backed by statistical evidence that underscores Kerala’s critical role in providing employment to migrants from across India.
Migration Fueled by Higher Wages and Job Availability
A recent study conducted by Gram Vikas and the Center for Migration and Inclusive Development (CMID) highlights that 58% of Daringbadi’s migrant workforce is employed in Kerala. The primary reason for this mass migration is the stark wage disparity. While the average monthly income in Daringbadi is just ₹3,000, workers in Kerala earn an average of ₹10,750 per month. The migrants primarily find employment in the construction sector, along with jobs in hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.
Economic Impact: A ₹35 Crore Annual Remittance
This migration significantly contributes to the economy of Daringbadi, with migrant workers remitting approximately ₹35 crore annually. Most of them settle in Kerala’s urban and semi-urban areas, with Ernakulam being the top destination, followed by Thrissur, Kannur, and Pathanamthitta.
The 2023 data reveals that 8,953 migrant workers from Daringbadi are currently working in Kerala, the majority belonging to tribal communities. Their labor is integral to Kerala’s economy, bridging gaps in sectors that require intensive manpower.
While Kerala continues to be a preferred employment hub, this trend raises questions about the socio-economic conditions in Odisha, where low wages and limited job opportunities push workers to migrate in search of better livelihoods. Addressing these issues at the source could help balance regional economic growth and provide more sustainable opportunities for these communities.
