Nepal, Feb. 3 -- Now even women are leaving Nepali village known for seasonal out-migration to India The dawn air in Muktikot is dewy as the sun sets over the horizon in the mountains of western Nepal. A sad farewell song drifts across the village from a mud plastered house.

Rani BK sings a half melody, half lament: "I feel like my own hands are being cut off as you leave."

She is bidding farewell to her youngest brother, 37-year-old Ranne, his wife Akashe. They are going to Bangalore in India to find work.

Neighbours gather quietly in the gathering light, some wiping their eyes, others joining in song. "Please, don't cry," Ranne says softly. "These tears will haunt us on the journey."

Migration is not new to Muktikot, but the tears ...