Economic impacts of gulf migration in Kerala: A critical analysis

Kerala, the state of southern India has undergone major socio-economic changes driven largely by labour migration to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This article focuses on the economic implications of Gulf migration, relying on quantitative data and statistical analyses to substantiate its arguments. This paper then uses statistical tests and models to reinforce conclusions drawn about remittance inflows, labor market trends, socio-economic inequality, and the sustainability of an economy so dependent on migrants. By employing the empirical data, theoretical frameworks and assessments of policies, this study highlights the opportunities and structural vulnerabilities relating to Kerala's dependency on GCC remittances. The paper further examines the nexus between remittance inflow and local economic structures, while arguing for policy interventions to strive for a more balanced course of economic development.