International Institute for Population Sciences
Deemed to be University (An Autonomous Organization of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India)

Migration is a key determinant of population change and plays a critical role in shaping economic, social, and cultural development. Maharashtra, a significant destination for migrants, hosts a diverse range of migrants from both within the state and across India. According to the 2011 Census, Maharashtra is home to 16.3% of India's total rural-to-urban migration, with Mumbai serving as a primary destination. The research paper explores the dynamics of internal migration in Maharashtra, with a special focus on Mumbai analysis Census of India data 1991-2011. The study examines the socio-economic factors that influence migration patterns, highlighting the distinct motivations for migration among males and females. A substantial proportion of intra-state migration occurs within urban districts such as Thane, Pune, and Mumbai Suburban, pointing to the urban agglomeration process in the state. Employment and marriage are the primary reasons for migration, with rural migrants being more likely to move for employment-related opportunities than their urban counterparts. Migrants in Mumbai are predominantly engaged in sectors such as wholesale and retail trade, construction, accommodation and food services, and real estate. These findings suggest that migration not only redistributes population but also influences the labour market and the socio-economic structure of the city. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the complexities of migration, particularly in terms of the reasons behind migration that remain unclassified in the Census data. It also underscores the importance of migration in shaping urban and economic policies for sustainable development in cities like Mumbai.