KOCHI: Inter-state migrant workers in Kerala are losing out on entitlements from Central and state governments owing to the limitations in portability of the same, reveals a recent study by the Centre for socio-economic and Environmental Studies (CSES).The study, conducted by CSES director N Ajith Kumar calls for better coordination among Kerala, states of origin and the Central Government to ensure that the inter-state migrant labourers’ rights are transferred from their state of origin to Kerala. The study also observes that a strategy to reach out to migrant workers coming from diverse backgrounds has to be introduced, as the present strategy fails to reach a significant segment of the migrant population, whether it is through law enforcement agencies or public service providers.In most of the cases, the entitlements require that the beneficiary be a permanent resident of the respective state. Hence, inter-state migrant workers lose out on all their entitlements when they cross the border of their native state, reveals the study. Even in case of essential items given in subsidised rates at the State Civil Supplies Corporation, a ration card is necessary. Thus, migrants have to depend solely on the open market and are hence more vulnerable to the price disparities in the market. The study also notes that the situation of the migrant workers can be improved if they are made aware of their rights, entitlements and duties.
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