Tribal labour migration in India is marked with two distinct features - the highest proportion of migrant households among Scheduled Tribes and significant workforce participation by women (National Sample Survey Office, 2005). Around 55% of the tribal population migrates from tribal areas due to livelihood crisis and the pursuit of better employment opportunities (Mohapatra, 2019; Planning Commission, 2005). Existing research predominantly focuses on collective dimensions, with limited attention to individual experiences - particularly of women.


Anthropologists & Indian policy makers have profiled migrant tribals across demographic parameters such as gender, socio-economic status, migration factors and, nature of livelihood. Psychological researches have focussed on negative variables like stress, cultural bereavement, alienation and clinical conditions. Berry's seminal work on acculturation, intergroup contact, and maintenance of cultural identity has been widely applied. However, studies on migrant tribal women have been documented in a limited way - especially on identity and impact on social structures. Migration of women to urban areas has been viewed as an escape from the 'status trap' (Srinivas, 1977).


This study attempts to understand the experiences of migrant tribal women and the impact of economic migration on identity. Using Focus Group Discussions, it explores the impact of migration on identity - i.e. collective self and personal identity. The study aims to understand and explore the relevant areas of impact on identity at 3 levels- cultural self, relational self, and individual self-using Social Identity Theory. The sample comprises of women migrants from the tribes of Jharkhand who have voluntarily migrated to metro cities for economic reasons. The ongoing research also intends to explore the nature of migration, challenges, and adaptive strategies. The paper aims to contribute insights on tribal migration and inform policy frameworks by addressing the needs of the marginalised migrant communities.