Internal Migration and Climate Change in India: A State-wise Vulnerability Assessment

Migration due to climate change is gaining importance due to deteriorating climate conditions and the rising frequency of disasters impacting human lives, property and livelihoods. This article examines how climate change influences human migration and ranks the states by vulnerability. Flood-affected population emerges as one of the major push factors. Assam, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Madhya Pradesh are the most vulnerable, while Meghalaya, Daman and Diu, and Puducherry rank lowest. The study finds a significant positive relationship between migration trends from 1991 to 2021 and the vulnerability index, which provides policymakers and stakeholders valuable insights.