Does Male Migration help to Improve the quality of Reproductive health in India: Evidence from NFHS-3

Migration is a key component to reduce fertility level and improve the socio-economic status, reproductive knowledge and behaviour. However in developing countries migration is mainly induced by poverty. Study explore whether male migrants have better reproductive health knowledge and practices compared to non-migrants. Using data from NFHS-3 (2005-06) we have restricted our study to male population aged 15-54 years who are currently married and have at least one child. Bivariate and Multivariate technique analysed that relatively recent migrant (staying less than10 years) married male have better knowledge compared to non-migrant in terms of ovulatory cycle, modern methods of contraception, drinking pattern of water, place of birth. Result shows two fifth of recent migrant have correct knowledge of ovulatory cycle compared to 17% non- migrant. However migrants staying more than 10 years are even poorer than non migrant. Completed more than secondary schooling, belonging richest quintile have better reproductive knowledge