Abstract:
This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between
population density, migration, and land abandonment in the Valigamam North region,
which was profoundly affected by historical events, notably the ethnic conflict in the
Jaffna Peninsula from 1987 to 1995. With a randomly selected sample of 85 households,
Probit and Tobit models were utilised as analytical tools. Furthermore, this study used
thematic mapping methodology with ArcMap 10.4 software. The results of the probit
model revealed a statistically significant impact of migration, gender, and income on land
abandonment. Conversely, variables such as land size, labour, and loans did not exhibit a
statistically significant influence on land abandonment. The findings from the Tobit
model indicate a positive correlation between migration and the likelihood of land being
abandoned. The results elucidate significant spatial variations, particularly in locales
characterised by low population density, where abandonment of land is more prevalent.
The outcomes of this research offer insights for the formulation of land management
strategies and policy development.
