Agrarian Exodus, Reverse Migration and Rural Livelihoods in Highlands of Kerala, India

This study investigated the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of the highland exodus in Kerala, focusing on second- and third-generation Syrian Christian farming communities in Kozhikode district of Kerala, India. A major driving force behind the return migration—especially from Malabar back to Travancore and Kottayam regions were the sharp decline in agricultural prices, rising threats from animal attacks, pest and fungal outbreaks, and unpredictable weather conditions. Through primary surveys and regression analysis, the study examined income decline, generational occupational shifts, and human-wildlife conflict. It highlighted the need for integrated policy interventions to sustain highland agrarian livelihoods and address the challenges faced by communities anticipating exodus.