Subject: Indian Society

Migration to large cities in developing countries is driven by both push and pull factors, as evidenced by the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2020-21 which shows an urban migration rate of 34.9% in India.

Economic Factors

• Higher Wages: According to PLFS 2018-19, wages in urban areas are 17% higher than rural areas, with large cities offering 14% higher wages than smaller cities.

• Regular Employment: Large cities provide 90.3% regular wage employment compared to 75.6% in small cities, offering greater job security and stability.

• Economic Diversification: Metropolitan areas offer diverse employment opportunities across sectors like IT, manufacturing, and services.

• Informal Sector Opportunities: Large cities provide numerous opportunities in the unorganized sector, acting as a safety net for unskilled migrants.

Social Infrastructure

• Educational Facilities: Presence of premier institutions like IITs, IIMs, and specialized training centers attracts youth seeking quality education.

• Healthcare Services: Superior medical infrastructure with specialized hospitals and diagnostic centers, though often overcrowded in developing nations.

• Social Mobility: Better opportunities for upward social mobility through exposure to diverse social networks and cultural experiences.

Urban Amenities

• Better Connectivity: Advanced transportation infrastructure including metros, airports, and highways.

• Digital Infrastructure: Superior internet connectivity and digital services supporting the growing digital economy.

• Modern Lifestyle: Access to shopping malls, entertainment centers, and recreational facilities.

Challenges

• Growth of Slums and Informal Settlements: The inability of urban infrastructure and housing markets to keep pace with migration results in the proliferation of slums and squatter settlements.

• Infrastructure Strain: Overcrowding leading to shortage of basic infrastructure and pressure on civic amenities.

• Healthcare Access: Despite more facilities, overcrowding and under-resourcing affect healthcare delivery, particularly for low-income groups.

The trend of migration to large cities reflects the urban-centric development model adopted by many developing nations. While this has created opportunities, it has also led to challenges that need addressing through policies like Smart Cities Mission and AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) to ensure sustainable urban development and balanced regional growth.