Uttarakhand Migration Prevention Commission (Palyan Nivaran Aayog) – Complete Guide for UKPSC & UKSSSC

Introduction & Background Migration (Palayan) is one of the most critical socio-economic challenges facing the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. Since its formation in 2000, the state has witnessed a massive exodus from its hill districts to the plains and other states. To address this "demographic vacuum" and the security concerns arising from uninhabited border villages, the Government of Uttarakhand established a specialized body to study, monitor, and provide solutions for this crisis. Definition and Meaning The Palyan Nivaran Aayog (Migration Prevention Commission) is an advisory body of the Uttarakhand Government. Its primary role is to act as a think-tank that conducts grassroots surveys to identify the reasons behind migration and suggests policy interventions to promote "Reverse Migration" and rural development. Establishment and Evolution Formation Date: August 17, 2017. Original Name: Gramya Vikas evam Palayan Aayog (Rural Development and Migration Commission). Renaming: In July 2022, the state cabinet renamed it to Palyan Nivaran Aayog (Migration Prevention Commission) to reflect a more proactive and preventive approach. Headquarters: Pauri (Pauri Garhwal), chosen strategically as Pauri is one of the most migration-affected districts. Composition and Structure The commission follows a high-level hierarchical structure to ensure political will and administrative efficiency: Chairman (Adhyaksh): The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand (Ex-officio). Currently, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami. Vice Chairman (Upadhyaksh): A specialized expert in rural development or administration. Currently, Dr. S.S. Negi (Sharad Singh Negi) serves as the Vice Chairman. Members: The commission consists of experts from various fields including sociology, economics, and rural planning. Implementation Committee: Chaired by the Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand to ensure the commissions recommendations are executed by various government departments. Objectives of the Commission The commission was established with the following core objectives: To conduct a village-wise survey of all 13 districts to quantify migration. To categorize migration into "Permanent" and "Temporary" types. To identify "Ghost Villages" (Ghutia Gaon) – villages with zero population. To suggest measures for improving health, education, and employment in hill regions. To develop strategies for the development of international border villages (Strategically important for National Security). Powers and Functions Data Collection: It has the power to seek data from various departments like Agriculture, Horticulture, and Education. Policy Recommendation: It submits periodic reports to the state government suggesting changes in existing schemes or the launch of new ones. Monitoring: It monitors the impact of flagship schemes like MGNREGA and MSME policies on rural stabilization. Advisory: It acts as a bridge between the rural populace and the policymakers in Dehradun. Key Findings and Reports (Exam Focus) For UKPSC Mains and Interviews, these statistics are vital: Category Details Ghost Villages Approximately 1,768 villages are identified as nearly or completely uninhabited. Primary Reason Lack of Livelihood/Employment (approx. 50%) followed by Education and Health. Highest Migration District Pauri Garhwal and Almora (Both have recorded negative decadal population growth). Border Migration Significant migration from districts like Pithoragarh, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi, which share borders with China and Nepal. Current Affairs Relevance (2024-2025) Mukhyamantri Palayan Roktham Yojna (MPRY): Launched based on commission recommendations to provide self-employment in 474 highly affected border villages. Pravasi Panchayat: The commission has initiated "Pravasi Panchayats" to connect with the diaspora of Uttarakhand living in cities like Delhi and Mumbai to encourage investment in their ancestral villages. Focus on Border Tourism: In 2025, the commission prioritized the development of "Vibrant Villages" to ensure population stability near the LAC. Importance for Uttarakhand The commission is vital because migration is not just a social issue but a security threat. "Ghost villages" near the borders can be exploited by hostile neighbors. Furthermore, the cultural heritage of Uttarakhand—its languages (Garhwali/Kumaoni) and traditional farming—is at risk as people move away from their roots. Exam Importance Prelims: Questions on the establishment year, headquarters, current Chairman/Vice-Chairman, and the new name of the commission. Mains: Descriptive questions on "Challenges of Migration in Uttarakhand" or "Role of Palyan Nivaran Aayog in Rural Development." Interview: Opinion-based questions on how to stop migration and your views on the commission effectiveness. One-Line Exam Facts The commission was renamed in July 2022. Pauri is the permanent headquarters. Pushkar Singh Dhami is the current Chairman. Dr. S.S. Negi is the Vice Chairman. The commission has submitted more than 16 reports to date. The first report focused on Gram Panchayats and was submitted in 2018. Conclusion The Uttarakhand Migration Prevention Commission (Palyan Nivaran Aayog) is a landmark initiative to save the "Pahad" from becoming deserted. For aspirants, understanding its functioning is crucial as it touches upon geography, economy, and polity sections of the Uttarakhand state syllabus. Strengthening rural infrastructure and local employment remains the only way forward to turn the tide of migration.