Is Tamil Nadu Preparing for a Statewide Survey on Migrant Labourers?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government is embarking on a significant statewide survey of inter-state migrant workers to create a comprehensive database. This initiative aims to fill data gaps and improve the welfare measures for these vital contributors to the economy.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu initiates a statewide survey of ISM workers.
- Aim to create a reliable database for better welfare delivery.
- Over 12 lakh workers registered so far.
- Collaboration with private agencies to expedite the process.
- Key sectors for ISMs include manufacturing and textiles.
Chennai, Aug 21 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has issued a tender to conduct a thorough statewide survey of inter-state migrant (ISM) workers, aiming to create a dependable and updated database of this vital workforce.
This initiative will enhance the ongoing enrolment campaign led by the state labour department via its online registration portal. To date, officials have compiled a sector-specific database of 12.51 lakh workers, a task that has taken nearly five years due to challenges in reaching ISMs across all 38 districts.
To expedite this process, the department plans to collaborate with private agencies and institutions to finish the project within a tighter timeframe.
A senior bureaucrat noted that the lack of precise and complete data has hindered the government's capability to effectively implement welfare measures for ISMs.
“Many migrant workers were also unaware of the various social security schemes available to them. This survey will help close the gap between the current portal registrations and the actual numbers, allowing us to develop better policies and track the mobility of this workforce,” the official explained.
According to available data from the labour department, 12,17,229 workers have been registered so far.
Migrants from Odisha constitute the largest group at 2.89 lakh, followed by Bihar with 2.51 lakh. Workers from Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal also represent significant portions of the workforce.
Sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and textiles account for the majority of ISM employment. In Tiruppur district alone, over 1.22 lakh migrant workers are involved in garment and textile manufacturing. In Kancheepuram, Coimbatore, and Chennai districts combined, officials have documented over 2.22 lakh workers across industrial units and construction sites.
While the existing data offers insights into migration patterns and labour-intensive sectors, officials emphasized the need to cover at least 80 percent of the ISM population to ensure the database is truly representative.
The forthcoming survey is anticipated to be a crucial step in guaranteeing welfare delivery and fostering a sustainable framework for integrating ISMs into Tamil Nadu’s growth narrative.
Point of View
The Tamil Nadu government's initiative represents a significant investment in social infrastructure. By systematically addressing the needs of inter-state migrant workers, the state is not only enhancing welfare delivery but also setting a precedent for other states to follow, ensuring that the voices of all workers are recognized in national discourse.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the statewide survey?
The survey aims to create a reliable database of inter-state migrant workers, which will help improve welfare measures and policy-making.
How many migrant workers are currently registered?
As per the latest data, 12,17,229 workers have been registered so far.
Which states contribute the most migrant workers in Tamil Nadu?
Migrant workers from Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal form the largest groups.
What sectors employ the most migrant workers?
The manufacturing, construction, and textiles sectors are the primary employers of inter-state migrant workers.
Why is accurate data important for migrant workers?
Accurate data ensures that welfare measures are effectively targeted and that migrant workers are aware of available social security schemes.
