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  • Title: International migration and the "moral" economy of the "Barani" peasantry.
    Author: Khan AF.
    Journal: Pak Dev Rev; 1991; 30(4 Pt 2):1087-100. PubMed ID: 12285302.
    Abstract:
    International migration and the "barani" peasantry are explained in terms of a subsistence ethic in rainfed agricultural areas of northern Pakistan. It is postulated that economic decisions of the "barani" are rational and are part of a willed order which reflects the economic, political, social and cultural aspects of a deliberately organized style of living. This functional structure is discussed in terms of the motivational concerns of the "biraderi" and the kinship and worksharing patterns and the household structure. There is selectivity in the migration pattern and the decision is made with the collective welfare of the household in mind. The migrant profile is one of single, young males about 24-35 years; most fall in the 26-32 age group. 67% are unmarried, but there is motivation to marry in order to make claims on fathers' lands and fulfill dowry payments and become more marriageable. Also, villagers desire to expand the number of "biraderi" which strengthens the socioeconomic foundation. Marriage is also related to earning potential. The migration impact is felt in terms of the absence, which results in a loss of labor, but usually households cope effectively. Another impact was one of remittances, which make a considerable difference in household income. From a sample of households taken in 1980-1984, over 65% of migrant households received over 75% of their income from migrant labor. Only 1 household received 50% of their income from migrant labor. It is estimated that 64% of annual migrant's earnings and 87% of migrant's savings were remitted. The impact was also felt in the use of remittances, which in order to importance, satisfied the needs of the households, their aspirations, and access to investment opportunities. A significant portion of income was spent on basic needs: food, clothing/footwear, and other related items, and health. A portion also went to savings. This occurred in order to achieve security and a measure of control over their lives. In poorer households, satisfaction of basic needs and a threshold of savings took precedence over housing improvements. Priorities were established. Security is achieved eventually in the investment in housing since most poor households lived in mud and straw ("kutcha") or bricks and cement ("pukka") prior to migration. These structures needed repair after the monsoons. Respectability is attained through purchase of land, and most desire this end. Access is limited however due to unavailability and high prices. Social standing is also attained through spending on marriages, hospitality, deaths, pilgrimages, and cultural feasts. Acquisition of consumer durables is associated with a higher socioeconomic profile and occurs mostly among the better off. Poor migrants purchase these items for resale. Land investments were made for development of rent yielding commercial plots.
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