South Asian Journal of Social Studies and Economics

This paper surveys the impact of labour migration on the family structure and transportation patterns within the Santal community of Mayurbhanj district, Odisha. It investigates how migration disrupts traditional familial roles while fostering economic mobility. Qualitative data collected from 100 labour migrants across multiple blocks in Mayurbhanj reveal a significant decline in joint families and a corresponding rise in nuclear households, reflecting broader shifts toward urbanization and individualism. Additionally, post-migration advancements in transportation technologies, such as increased motor bike and tractor usage, highlight improved economic conditions and integration into modern lifestyles. However, these changes also introduce challenges, including cultural conflicts and fragmented family structures. The findings emphasize the dual nature of migration as both a symbol of development and a disruptor of traditional systems.