Paper short abstract:

This paper tries to capture the generation of Bengali migrant workers mainly from particular regions on one side and simultaneously failure to ensure their safe mobility in their country. This paper takes data from primary and secondary sources.

Paper long abstract:

The Bengali out-migrant workforce in contemporary India faces a complex web of interlinked crises, often described as "polycrisis." Driven by economic distress, unemployment, and agrarian challenges in West Bengal, these workers migrate to industrial hubs, urban centres and other parts of the country for better opportunities. However, their migration journey is fraught with multiple challenges exacerbating their vulnerabilities.

This paper tries to capture the generation of migrant workers and simultaneously preventing their safe mobility in the country. This paper takes data from primary and secondary sources.

One key aspect of this polycrisis is the lack of data on irregular migrant workers, often confined to informal sectors with poor wages, exploitative working conditions, and the absence of job security or social protection. This limits their access to welfare schemes, healthcare, and education for their families. Further identity-based discrimination and the threat of harassment marginalise them from access to services and integration into local communities.

The COVID-19 pandemic sharply exposed and amplified these crises during lockdown-induced reverse migrations. The crisis highlighted the fragile socio-economic status, prescribing the urgent need for systemic policy reforms.

This paper argues that the polycrisis faced by migrant workers requires a holistic approach that includes strengthening labour rights, enhancing social protections, promoting cultural inclusivity, and improving access to essential services. Understanding the interconnected nature of these challenges is critical for building a more inclusive and equitable environment for migrant workers in India.