SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF INTERNAL MIGRATION IN GILGIT BALTISTAN AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study investigates the socio-economic factors influencing internal migration in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Using primary data from 76 households, the research employs both descriptive statistics and econometric modeling to analyze the determinants of migration. Key variables include household infrastructure, education, employment status, and land ownership. The findings reveal that infrastructure deficiencies, particularly frequent power outages (load shedding), significantly drive migration decisions. The presence of a concrete house negatively correlates with migration, suggesting that better housing conditions deter movement. Surprisingly, other factors such as family size and working status did not show a statistically significant impact. The model explains approximately 48% of the variance in migration status, indicating the relevance of the included variables while also pointing to the need for further exploration of other potential influences. These insights provide a foundation for policy interventions aimed at improving living conditions and addressing migration drivers in the region.