Kerala, a state in southern India, has long been characterised by significant levels of migration, both internal and international. The term " migration hump" refers to the fluctuating patterns of migration where in emigration initially rises with economic development before eventually declining as development progress further. This paper dvelves into the reason behind Kerala's migration hump, examining various socio-economic factors contributing to this phenomenon. It explores historical contexts, such as gulf boom of 1970s which initially fuelled a surge in international migration from Kerala. Additionally, the state's unique demographic profile, high literacy rates, and strong social network are considered drivers of migration. More specifically the reseracher intended to analyse the dynamics in the magnitude and periodicity of emigration from Kerala economy, the role of remittances in Kerala economy and their impact on migration trends. These dynamics are crucial for policy makers and stakeholders in formulating effective strategies to manage migration and leverage its potential benefits while mitigating its adverse effects on Kerala's development trajectory.
A Muhlisa (2025) studied this question.