Bhubaneswar: Despite claims of success
in implementation of the NREGA in Orissa, one in every four
persons in the state was a migrant.
"At least 25 per cent of the state`s population is hit
by migration of different forms," State Information
Commissioner, Jagadananda told the UNDP`s meeting here
for launch of its Human Development Report for 2009.
Stating that people from Orissa migrated mostly for a
living, Jagadananda said the problem was acute in rain-fed
areas due to lack of livilihood options for the people.
This apart, he pointed out that gradual loss of forest
resources had also made tribals, who constitute about
one-third of the state`s population, vulnerable to migration.
Terming them as invisible citizens, he stressed on
formulation of a suitable policy to contain the problem.
As most migrants from the state went to Andhra
Pradesh, both the states should have a joint plan for the
affected people, he suggested.
Manorama Mohapatra of Lok Sevak Mandal blamed
migration for spread of diseases like AIDS.
Montek questions report
Planning Commission Deputy
Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia today expressed doubts over
the low internal migration figures for India in the Human
Development report.
"Many people have wondered whether the internal migration
(in India) really is as low as UNDP data suggest", he said
while releasing the report that pegs movement of people within
the country at 4.1 per cent.
"Some Indian data seem to show very low percentages of
the population who classified themselves as migrants", he
said.
Bureau Report
