I recently found a powerful YouTube documentary by Archana Tiwari. It sheds light on the heartbreaking yet often ignored reality of Bihar’s migrant laborers. The video is a detailed examination. It emotionally explores why millions of people from Bihar are forced to leave their homeland. They seek work and dignity elsewhere.
The Scale of Migration
The numbers are staggering. In 2011, over 7.5 million people from Bihar worked in other states. Today, that number is estimated at nearly 9 million—accounting for 14% of India’s total migrant labor population. These workers often take up the toughest jobs in cities: construction, delivery, security, and rickshaw pulling.
Life in Harsh Conditions
While these laborers contribute significantly to the economies of states like Delhi and Maharashtra, they live in appalling conditions. Cramped rooms, poor sanitation, and a lack of basic facilities define their everyday lives. One disturbing scene in the documentary showed a landlord evicting a worker simply for revealing these living conditions.
Facing Disrespect and Discrimination
Bihari laborers often face open discrimination. They are looked down upon, paid poorly, and treated unfairly. The documentary shows how societal attitudes can be cruel. It questions why Bihar’s political system has not done enough to prevent this mass exodus.
Why They Leave
The core reason behind this migration is simple: there are not enough jobs in Bihar. Even those who stay back struggle to earn ₹600-₹700 per day without the promise of consistent employment. Many say they would stay in Bihar if they could find decent work locally.
Bihar’s Untapped Potential
Ironically, Bihar has immense potential for growth. The state is rich in agriculture, especially in crops like makhana, maize, and vegetables. Bihar produces 85% of India’s makhana. However, farmers earn little due to lack of cold storage. There is also no proper pricing, as there is no MSP. Additionally, there is an absence of food processing units.
Gulab Bagh Mandi in Purnia is Asia’s largest grain market. However, it operates only 3-4 months a year. This is due to a lack of manpower and infrastructure. Similarly, maize could be turned into high-value products, but again, processing units are missing.
Poor Connectivity and Infrastructure
Despite the state’s fertile land and ample water, vegetable farmers struggle with transporting goods. Road and river connectivity are poor. Even access to hospitals is risky, requiring dangerous river crossings.
Comparing With Gujarat
The documentary compares Bihar with Gujarat, where food processing industries have helped local farmers earn more. Why can’t Bihar replicate that success?
The Real Need: Development Over Division
The video ends with a strong message: Bihar has the workforce and land, but lacks investment and political will. Voters are urged to move beyond caste-based politics and demand real development.
Final Thoughts
This documentary is a much-needed eye-opener. It’s not just about economic statistics; it’s about human dignity, respect, and a better future for millions. Bihar has everything it needs to thrive—except the infrastructure and leadership to make it happen. It’s time we demand better.
