Livelihood, Employment and Health of Migrant Workers in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic

ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses some of the important issues of migrant population in the context of COVID-19 pandemic. Most of the unskilled/semi-skilled workers earn subsistence levels of wages, and no social protection is available. Central and state governments and society did not take any concrete measures to address their concerns related to livelihood and health, especially during the nationwide lockdown and phased unlocking period. This qualitative study was conducted to understand the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on their lives and livelihood. We also explored the common vulnerabilities that migrants faced across the states and the type of assistance they received from various stakeholders. Health care and health-seeking behaviour during COVID times were other important areas that we focused upon. © 2022 selection and editorial matter, S. Irudaya Rajan;individual chapters, the contributors.