Social Network as a Survival Strategy for Migrant Women Construction Workers in Delhi

Abstract

It is a well-established fact that the pre-existing social connection makes migration less stressful, but the phenomenon of network is not the same for all; for example, there are gender differences in the type and use of social network. In India, where female migrants are relatively vulnerable mainly if they are migrating alone then these networks play the most important role in the decision-making process for migration. It is well documented that women’s network is composed of stronger and more kin-based ties than men’s. The use of personal contacts in a job search continues to generate interest as a source of gender disparity in important employment outcomes such as occupational sex segregation, status and earnings. Historically, the building and construction industry has drawn heavily on migrant workers to meet labour needs. It also absorbs those who often migrate seasonally and work at construction sites to augment their farm income. Based on the field survey of construction workers at Delhi conducted in 2012, present research paper tries to understand the role of women worker’s social network in finding jobs at construction sites and their received pre/post migration assistance.