Internal Migration and Livelihood Outcomes of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Migrants in Rawalpindi and Islamabad

Abstract

Urban development and enhancement in livelihood is largely derived by internal migration in Pakistan. This study focus on how internal migration changes employment forecasts, revenue levels, access to basic facilities, social and cultural integration, and migrants' general well-being. A quantitative research design is employed in the study. A structured questionnaire was adopted to collect main data from migrants from Azad Jammu and Kashmir who were residing in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The findings established that migration has meaningfully enhanced livelihood. About 81% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the host communities provide steady and reliable employment opportunities. Positive social and cultural integration into host communities was described by nearly 69% of migrants, demonstrating encouraging interaction, adaptability, and participation in resident social life. The joint effects of social inclusion, service access, income adequacy, and job safety are reflected in this variation. Steady employment and improved general well-being are completely correlated, according to correlation analysis, which confirms employment as a key factor in refining livelihood. Conferring to the study's conclusions, internal migration from Azad Jammu and Kashmir to Rawalpindi and Islamabad has commonly amended living conditions and assisted in the social and economic progress of urban areas. Though, the full benefits of migration are still incomplete by inequalities in skill acknowledgement, income security, and access to essential facilities. In order to assurance justifiable livelihood outcomes, the results accentuate the requirement of explicit urban policies to increase service delivery, employment quality, and social inclusion of internal migrants.