Exploring Rural Youth Perspectives on Migration Dynamics in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

This paper investigates the perspectives of rural youth towards migration dynamics in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. The present study was carried out during the year 2024-25 in four districts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh namely Chandauli, Varanasi, Deoria and Gorakhpur. The sample size of 160 rural youth was randomly selected for the study and data were collected through face to face personal interview method. Multi stage sampling technique and descriptive research degin were adopted for the study. Based on data collected from 160 respondents aged 18–35 years, the study explores both positive and negative attitudes which shape migration choices. Findings reveal that 80.63% of rural youth exhibit a positive attitude towards migration, influenced mainly by the desire of improved employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Conversely, 19.37% of respondents express a negative attitude, valuing rural lifestyle, closeness with family, cultural stability, and affordability. The study explains the results using push–pull migration theories, highlighting how unstable agricultural income, poor infrastructure, and fragmented landholdings push youth towards cities, while urban amenities act as powerful pull factors. The study concludes that while migration is understood as a step toward progress, many rural youth remain attached to their communities. Policy interventions focusing on rural infrastructure, entrepreneurial skill development, and market linkages are essential to reduce distress migration. This paper contributes to migration studies by offering an in-depth examination of rural youth perspectives in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, a region where agricultural distress and socio-economic challenges significantly influence migratory behavior.