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International labour migration, farmland fallowing, livelihood diversification and technology adoption in Nepal

Author

Listed:
  • Apsara KARKI NEPAL
  • Mani NEPAL
  • Randall BLUFFSTONE
Abstract
This article investigates the effect of temporary international labour migration on farmland fallowing, adoption of agricultural intensification technologies and livelihood diversification. Using nationally representative data, combined with empirical methods that allow causal inference, the authors find that households with international migrants are over 50 per cent more likely (based on propensity score matching estimates) to have fallow land than those without. Temporary international migration promotes the adoption of some agricultural intensification technologies and causes rural households to diversify their livelihoods. Land fallowing may increase food insecurity, while agricultural intensification may improve it, for an uncertain net effect.

Suggested Citation

  • Apsara KARKI NEPAL & Mani NEPAL & Randall BLUFFSTONE, 2023. "International labour migration, farmland fallowing, livelihood diversification and technology adoption in Nepal," International Labour Review, International Labour Organization, vol. 162(4), pages 687-713, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:intlab:v:162:y:2023:i:4:p:687-713
    DOI: 10.1111/ilr.12375
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    References listed on IDEAS

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