Bound for new horizons: Indentured migration from Jharkhand
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2026.v11.n02.005Keywords:
migration, indentured, girmitiyas, hill coolies and JharkhandAbstract
This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of indentured migration from Jharkhand, India, encompassing both historical and contemporary perspectives. Indentured migration involves individuals entering exploitative contractual agreements to work in distant locations, with 'hill coolies' from Jharkhand's tribal groups being central to this phenomenon during the British colonial era. This paper, based on a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method, sheds light on the historical significance of indentured migration, emphasizing the vulnerability of early migrants from tribal communities. Despite the integral role of Jharkhand in indentured migration, the region remains understudied, particularly concerning the Chota Nagpur plateau. The paper underscores the crucial role of indentured migration plays in the growth and development, presenting a thorough examination of its socio-economic impact. The concluding section reflects on the importance of indentured within the context of migration, emphasizing the need for further research and attention to the understudied phenomenon of indentured migration from the Chota Nagpur plateau. The paper proposes a discussion on the historical roots of indentured migration and labour from Jharkhand, as well as a broader exploration of the relationship between identity and indentured migration. In summary, this systematic review contributes valuable insights into the complex dynamics of indentured migration from Jharkhand, urging for a deeper understanding of its historical context and contemporary implications.
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