25, April 2026

Effects of Seasonal Unemployment on Non-Farm Wages

VOLUME-12; ISSUE-4; APR-2026

Author(s): Pushpalatha.V

Authors Affiliations:

 

Associate Professor, Department of Economics, M.P.M.M. SN Trust College, Shoranur, University of Calicut, Kerala, India

DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202604018     |     Paper ID: IJIRMF202604018


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Abstract: Seasonal unemployment remains a major challenge in agrarian economies where employment opportunities are highly dependent on agricultural cycles. During off-seasons, agricultural labourers often shift to non-farm sectors in search of alternative employment, thereby influencing labour supply and wage dynamics. This study examines the effect of seasonal unemployment on non-farm wages in Kerala. The study is based on primary data collected from 300 agricultural workers through a structured survey schedule from Palakkad District in Kerala. Descriptive statistical tools such as percentage analysis, tables, Chi-Square Test and graphical interpretation were used for data analysis. The findings reveal that while a significant proportion of workers engage in non-farm employment during agricultural off-seasons, the impact on wage reduction is not uniformly severe. The study also highlights the limited effectiveness of government employment schemes such as MGNREGA in stabilizing household income. The paper suggests the need for diversified rural employment opportunities and strengthened policy interventions to reduce income instability.
Key- Words: Seasonal Unemployment, non-farm wages, rural labour market, MGNREGP, wage instability.

Pushpalatha.V (2026); Effects of Seasonal Unemployment on Non-Farm Wages , International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-12, Issue-4, Available on –   https://www.ijirmf.com/

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