Comprehensive Study Notes on Migration Patterns and Analysis of Migration
Definition and Fundamental Nature of Migration
Migration refers to the movement of people from their native place to another place. This phenomenon involves the relocation of individuals or groups over varying distances to establish a life in a different location.
Permanent Migration and Long-Term Settlement
Permanent migration is defined as the movement of people over a long distance to another place for a long period of time. Individuals engaged in this type of migration often seek to settle indefinitely in their new environment. For example, people settling in Saudi Arabia are considered permanent migrants.
Seasonal Migration and Transhumance
Seasonal migration is a category of temporary migration characterized by cyclical movements. One common example is the seasonal movement of laborers who travel to work in agricultural fields.
A specific form of seasonal migration is transhumance, which refers to the pastoral movement of people along with their flock of animals. During this process, pastoralists move to warmer pastures during the winter and return to their original locations in the summer. Both agricultural labor shifts and transhumance serve as primary examples of temporary migration.
Comparison of Internal and External (International) Migration Patterns
Migration patterns can be differentiated based on the borders crossed and the socio-economic status of the migrants involved.
Internal Migration:
Internal migration occurs when a large number of people migrate from one () region or state in a country to another region or state within the boundaries of the same country. This form of movement does not change the total national population but directly changes the population density of specific areas. It is mostly seen in unskilled workers, such as those migrating from villages to towns or cities.
External (International) Migration:
External migration, or international migration, occurs when a large number () of people move from one () country to another country. Unlike internal movement, this type of migration changes the total population of the countries involved. International migration is mostly seen in professionals and skilled people. Specific examples include Indians migrating to nations such as the USA or China.