Q. Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries.(10 marks)

 

Q. Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries.

Core Demand of the Question ●        Discuss why large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns in developing countries. ●        Discuss why smaller towns are not attracting migrants compared to large cities in developing countries.

 

Answer

Rural-Urban migration refers to the movement of people from rural areas to urban centres in search of better employment, living conditions, and social services. According to the UN, nearly 55% of the global population now resides in urban areas,  a proportion that is expected to increase to 68% by 2050, with large cities acting as hubs for economic activity and offering diverse opportunities, particularly in developing countries.

Data: ●     Migration stands as a prominent feature of the 21st century, with over 258 million individuals residing outside their countries of origin- UN Habitat.

Reasons Why Large Cities Tend to Attract More Migrants than Smaller Towns in Developing Countries:

• Diverse Employment Opportunities: Large cities provide a wider range of job opportunities across multiple sectors, such as manufacturing, services, and technology, which small towns lack.
  For example: Mumbai offers jobs in finance, retail, and IT, attracting job seekers.
• Better Access to Education and Healthcare: Urban centres host more universities, colleges, and specialised healthcare facilities.
  For example: Delhi has some of the country’s top educational institutions, including Delhi University (DU), and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
• Improved Infrastructure: Cities have superior infrastructure with better roads, public transportation, sanitation, and electricity.
  For example: Jakarta and Lagos offer better services compared to rural or small-town settings.
• Cultural and Social Attractions: Cities offer richer cultural scenes, entertainment options, and social amenities.
  For example: Cairo has vibrant cultural hubs with numerous festivals, museums, and theatres.
• Social Safety Nets and Networks: Migrants are drawn to areas where established communities and social networks can help them with accommodation and employment.
  For example: Sao Paulo has strong migrant networks that provide support to newcomers.
• Perceived Economic Mobility: Large cities symbolise success and upward mobility, which attract migrants seeking better livelihoods.
  For example: In New Delhi and Mumbai, many people migrate with the hope of economic improvement.
• Government and Private Investment: Cities often receive significant government and corporate investments, boosting job creation and development projects.
  For example: IT hubs like Bangalore draw people from smaller towns.

 

Reasons why smaller towns are not attracting migrants compared to large cities in developing countries:

• Limited Job Opportunities: Smaller towns have fewer industries and businesses, limiting employment prospects.
  For example: Rural areas provide fewer formal jobs, driving residents toward cities like Lagos and New Delhi.
• Lower Access to Quality Education and Healthcare: Small towns often lack reputable higher education institutions and advanced healthcare services.
  For example: Small towns and rural areas in Bihar have limited access to quality higher education, with reputable institutions like Patna University and Nalanda University primarily located in larger cities.
• Poor Infrastructure: Smaller towns struggle with underdeveloped roads, electricity, and public services.
• Lack of Investment and Economic Development: Smaller towns often miss out on public and private investment..
  For example: Cities like Sao Paulo or Nairobi receive the bulk of development projects, leaving smaller towns underdeveloped.
• Stagnant Social and Cultural Environment: The absence of diverse social and cultural activities in smaller towns can deter young migrants..
  For example: Youth in Mexico’s smaller towns often migrate to urban areas for better cultural and social experiences.
• Insufficient Government Services: Weaker governance and fewer public services, such as healthcare, sanitation, and safety, plague smaller towns. .
  For example: This is especially true in Southeast Asia, where many small towns struggle to provide basic municipal services.
• Migration Push Factors: Small towns are often more vulnerable to natural disasters, droughts, and economic instability.

 

To address the overwhelming influx of migrants to large cities in developing countries, efforts must focus on decentralising opportunities and improving infrastructure in smaller towns. By promoting balanced urban development, these regions can become viable alternatives, reducing the strain on megacities and paving the way for more equitable and sustainable urbanisation in the future.