The study report by KISMAT Kerala (an initiative of BREADS Bangalore in collaboration with Don Bosco institutions in Kerala) on ‘The Life and Labour of the Interstate Migrants in Kerala’ was released today (August 6, 2021) by Sri Antony Raju, Hon Minister for Road Transport Motor Vehicle & Water Transport at Don Bosco Auditorium, Manacaud, Trivandrum. Sri Sreelal, Assistant Labour Commissioner & Chief Guest of the day, Fr Tony Varghese, Director, KISMAT and Fr Rubin Mathew SDB, Executive Director, BREADS were present during this event among other members.
This survey conducted by KISMAT staff among 1500 Interstate Migrant Workers (ISMs) across all 14 districts of Kerala focused on identifying the explicit problems faced by ISMs in the context of their experiences of working and living in Kerala to better address issues that emerge as significant factors in their well-being. The study revealed that economics and survival are the major driving forces behind the migration of mainly north Indian, unskilled labourers to Kerala. Migrants faced communication and language issues, but a process of acculturation was happening too. Most migrants were unaware of their entitlements and rights in the spheres of health, wages, labour etc., and there was a need for more awareness on these aspects. A small percentage of migrants had negative experiences where appropriate policy decisions and structures must be implemented to address their issues. Overall, the experiences of the majority of the migrants in Kerala, in their work and life, were positive.
During this event, the children of migrant workers who scored an A+ in their SSLC Exams, 2021, were also honoured for their hard work and dedication!
