Impact of Migration and Remittances on Investment in Agriculture and Food Security in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Migration of labour from the rural farming areas of the country, impacts on agricultural production as well as food security in the families of the farmers. This study examines both the positive and negative effects of such migration in a rural setting. Data for the study is obtained through available literature, official income and expenditure data, interviews and Focus group discussions with stakeholders in the commercial agricultural, semi-subsistence agricultural and fisheries sectors. Analysis of the data revealed that in the poorer families, remittances from the migrants accounted for a large percentage of their income, this reaching to over 80% in some families. Findings also showed that in these families, poor financial management of their resources was displayed. Remittances received was primarily used for improvement of their life style and not on productive investment activities. It was apparent thus, that the state was lethargic in educating the migrants and their families on prudent management of their finances. The study provides recommendations on increasing the development impact of migration in terms of agricultural development and food security. The authors are also of the view that generating a skilled and self sufficient rural labour force is a prime responsibility of the state, and assistance through financial credit facilities and training is an urgent need. The necessity of the education system being in line with the state migration policy, in terms of technical and language education is also emphasised.