In any settlement – village or town – change in population occurs due to birth, death and migration. Birth and death are clearly identifiable events, but migration poses the maximum problem with regard to its definition and measurement, because almost everyone keeps moving most of the time. This chapter covers how migration is counted, its extent in India and Tamil Nadu, the factors behind it and the policies to address it.
1. How the Census Counts Migrants
| Basis | Who is counted | Known as |
|---|---|---|
| Place of birth | Place of birth is different from the place of enumeration | Life-time migrant |
| Place of residence | Place of last residence is different from the place of enumeration | Migrant by place of last residence |
2. Extent of Migration in India and Tamil Nadu (Census 2011)
| Measure (place of last residence) | India | Tamil Nadu |
|---|---|---|
| Total population | 121 crore | 7.2 crore |
| Migrants | 45 crore | 3.13 crore |
| Percentage of migrants | 37% | 43% |
| Female migrants | 53% | 52% |
| Male migrants | 23% | 35% |
| Females citing marriage as the reason | 70% | 51% |
| Males citing work as the major reason | 28% | 26% |