Socio economic analysis of gulf migration on marine fisherfolk in malappuram district Kerala

Abstract

The ocean, with its vast and rich ecosystem, plays a vital role in shaping the economic, social and cultural lives of people globally. Marine resources are particularly crucial for the development of coastal communities, offering livelihoods and ensuring food security. In Kerala, the fisheries sector plays a vital role in supporting livelihoods. It provides diverse, dynamic and resilient opportunities for approximately 10.6 lakh fisherfolk, which make up about 3.2 percent of the state’s population. This includes 8.15 lakh individuals engaged in marine fisheries and 2.45 lakh in inland fisheries. These communities are spread across 222 marine fishing villages and 113 inland fishing villages. The marine fisheries sector in Kerala holds immense significance, providing essential livelihoods and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of coastal communities. But they are considered as a marginalised section of the society. The marine sector in Kerala faces significant challenges, including the impacts of climate change, overfishing and environmental degradation. These challenges have led to unstable incomes and increased vulnerability for the marine fisherfolk. As a response, migration, particularly to gulf countries, has emerged as a survival strategy, with remittances helping improve income, living conditions and overall household well-being. Research on the socio-economic effects of migration, especially for marginalised communities like marine fisherfolk, remains limited. Further, there is limited research on the socio-economic effects of migration for marginalised communities like marine fisherfolk, particularly regarding how migration influences income and expenditure patterns. This study aims to address these gaps by examining the socio-economic characteristics, determinants of migration, patterns of migration and income disparities between migrant and non-migrant households. Malappuram district in Kerala is a prime example of migration, especially to Gulf countries. The district has also witnessed socio-economic changes due to migration. The district reflects its significant contribution to the migration and fishing community. This research examines the socio-economic impact of Gulf migration on marine fishermen in the Malappuram district of Kerala, using primary data collected from 375 households and secondary data for a comprehensive study.The findings show that migration has significantly improved the socio-economic status of migrant households, leading to better living conditions, type of housing, education and financial stability through remittances. Non-migrant households, in contrast, continue to face economic instability and limited opportunities for upward mobility. The study also highlights increased income inequality among migrant fisherfolk, influenced by education, occupation and remittance flows. Migration boosts livelihood sustainability by enhancing human, financial and physical capital. Despite improvements in socio-economic conditions, non-migrant households continue to face challenges such as limited occupational diversity and restricted opportunities for upward mobility. These issues are particularly severe during the monsoon season, which threatens both their livelihoods and housing stability. Climate change has emerged as a significant concern, exacerbating these vulnerabilities. To address these challenges, policy recommendations include expanding access to financial services, promoting livelihood diversification, such as aquaculture, improving female labour force participation through targeted programs, implementing climate change adaptation strategies and raising awareness through community education programs. Strengthening community networks and investing in sustainable development initiatives are significant to enhancing the long-term financial security and well-being of both migrant and non-migrant marine fisherfolk households.