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Who’s a migrant? A person who moves from one place to another, especially in order to find work or better living conditions. How many people are we talking about? The Economic Survey of India 2017 estimates that the magnitude of inter-state migration in India was close to nine million annually between 2011 and 2016 while Census 2011 pegs the total number of internal migrants in the country (accounting for inter- and intra-state movement) at a staggering 139 million. What’s the migrant crisis in India? Following the nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus, many migrants have been walking home to their villages from major cities after losing their jobs. What’s life like for a migrant? A freight train in Aurangabad killed 16 migrants. Another migrant delivered a baby on the roadside. Many are struggling to reach home by road. Some were sprayed with bleach, some were punished. The exodus of migrants from cities following the lockdown has thrown the spotlight on the hardships faced by them. What has been the government’s response? Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Rs12 lakh crore economic relief package to mitigate the impact of lockdown. But has the decision addressed the most vulnerable community? Listen to know more. Please send feedback at estatethefourth@gmail.com